With high winds expected on Sun it was inevitable that the West Bay Swim would have to be "Downsized" to the "Portrush Harbour Swim".

The course was laid out in the harbour with two buoys placed at the harbour mouth and a third buoy (Already in place) behind the lifeboat.

The swimmers then started to arrive at 1530 for registration in the Yacht Club and after "Numbering up" we all met at the harbour slipway for the safety briefing.

At approx 1630 the swimmers made their way down the slipway for 3 laps of the triangular course spurred on by cheers and applause from the throng of spectators that had now gathered to watch these "Maniacs" brave the cold 10 degree water!!.

As the race got underway it was clear that last years winner Gerrard Curran was the man to beat as he took a commanding lead right from the start.

Robert Barry and Keith Campbell followed in 2nd and 3rd place with Gerry Meehan also swimming well in 4th.

The ladies race started much the same as the mens as Maureen McCoy immediately hit the front of the pack with Ruth Butler and Alison Cardwell trying their utmost to catch "Flying mo"!!

As the swimmers started their final lap it was clear that both Gerard and Mo were well on their way to victory and so it proved to be as both "Touched the wall" first in their respective races.

Robert Barry was second in the mens race followed closely by Keith Campbell in third.

In the ladies race their was quite a tussle going on for 2nd with Alison Cardwell and Ruth Butler providing an exciting finish. In the end they couldn't be separated so both were awarded joint 2nd place for their efforts!!

After the race all swimmers and some canoeists made their way upstairs for the presentations where race secretary Jeff Wilson assisted by the lovely Samantha Barry presented plaques and medals to all finishing swimmers.

Jeff also thanked the Causeway Coast Kayak Assc for their usual "Top notch" safety cover and they Portrush Yacht Club for their hospitality.

Race Results (Ladies)

1st) Maureen McCoy  -  16.23

2nd) Ruth Butler/Alison Cardwell  -  17.58

3rd) Wendy Bevan  - 24.24

4th) Jane Scott  -  28.28

Mens

1st) Gerrard Curran  - 15.19

2nd) Robert Barry  -  16.31

3rd) Keith Campbell  -  16.58

4th) Gerry Meehan  -  17.15

5th) Conor McGilloway  -  18.19

6th) Ciaran Pollock  -  18.30

7th) Simon Mulderig  -  19.13

8th) Paddy Bradley  -  19.56

9th) Tom Stokes  -  22.03

10) Tony Rafferty  -  24.42