On 18 July 2009, 279 competitors took part in the annual Vibes & Scribes Lee Swim through the heart of Cork city in front of estimated 2,000 spectators. The event organised by Cork Masters Swimming Club is expected to raise thousands of euros for the local Lions Club who will donate the proceeds of the race to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.
More than a third were first-time participants and there were six English Channel veterans. The weather reduced spectator numbers as showers swept across the course.
Shane Drumm of Aer Lingus Swimming Club in Dublin, was the first man across the 2km finish line in the south channel at Lapp’s Quay in 22m 30s followed by Owen O’Keeffe from Fermoy, Co Cork.
Maeve Linehan, of Mallow Swans Swimming Club, was the first woman to finish in 25m 22s.
Lord Mayor Cllr Dara Murphy presented awards to Rory Fitzgerald of Gilford (Denis Ollivere Trophy, for the person who swims nearest the world record for their age group) and Ray McArdle (Denis O’Brien Trophy, for people who swim in wetsuits nearest the world record time).
The race’s youngest competitor was Harry Cohen who had just celebrated his 12th birthday.
Credits Irish Examiner.