Over 70 years of History
About River Moy Swim Race
Is one of the oldest river swims in Ireland, the Moy Swim is taking place again this year. In conjunction with Swim Ireland , the River Moy Swim returned to the banks of the Moy in 2019 after an absence of more than 30 years. The event was a great success and we are delighted to announce the 5th Annual running of the fantastic Moy Swim. With two distances on offer both the 600m and 2.5km and 600m youth distance swim this promises to be a fantastic opportunity to experience a competitive race in the scenic surrounds of the wild Atlantic way in the west of Ireland.
The event is run in conjuction with Ballina Salmon Festival , Heyco, Mayo Sports Partnership and many local organisations and businesses in Ballina.
Before You Book
- You must be able to swim the distance of the event that you have registered for. This Swim is for ages 16 and over only.
- Due to the nature of Open Water Events, timings on event day are subject to change.
- Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event (except when in the water).
- Tow floats are recommended.
- Open to both wetsuits and non-wetsuit participants.
- Please indicate on the registration form which category you will be in (Wetsuit OR Non -Wetsuit)
2.5km Competitive EVENT
Book your place for the River Moy 2.5km Race, part of Swim Ireland’s Summer Series Swim. Each participant will receive a swim hat, bag, and participation medal on the day.
600m Participation Event
Book your place for the River Moy 600 metre Race, part of Swim Ireland’s Summer Series Swim. Each participant will receive a swim hat, bag, and participation medal on the day.
Book your place for the River Moy 600 metre Race, part of Swim Ireland’s Summer Series Swim. Each participant will receive a swim hat, bag, and participation medal on the day.
The History
The original swim started at the famous salmon weirs and swimmers would dive in there and swim to St. Muredach’s College. The winning cup, known as ‘The Bishop’s Cup’ was presented to the Swimming Club by the late Bishop O’Boyle many years ago. This year’s swim will start at the steps of the cathedral in the middle of Ballina and will finish at the slipway in the Quay encapsulating all of Ballina and the majestic River Moy . We look forward to welcoming you to our lovely town and wish you the best of luck. . With two distances on offer both the 600m and 2.5km and 600m youth distance swim this promises to be a fantastic opportunity to experience a competitive race in the scenic surrounds of the wild Atlantic way in the west of Ireland.
The Swim has great history in the town and started in Ballina back in the 1950’s and was held for many years. For all those open water enthusiasts, Ballina as a town and the River Moy can proudly boast that the first man to swim the English Channel in 1875 also knew the town well, as he came here on several occasions as captain of a ship taking cargo to local merchants. While preparing for his Channel swim and place in history, Captain Matthew Webb became the first man to swim Killala Bay in 1974, from the Enniscrone (Sligo) side to Kilcummin (Mayo side). He used to train in the River Moy and boasted to fellow drinkers in McDonnells Pub on Bridge Street (now the Bolg Bui) that he would buy them all a drink after successfully accomplishing his Channel challenge. By taking part in the swim you too can become of part of this town’s great history.
