Race Report

The swim was sponsered by Colm Mc Evoy of the Whistledown Hotel It has been running now since 2006 and growing in numbers every year, the race is run on a handicap system with the slowest swimmers going off first and the fastest swimmers playing catchup.
 
Water temperature was 14 degrees Celcius calm at time of swim, weather conditions were Overcast Light Westerly breeze  swimmers were set off at allocated intervals from the shore line at Warrenpoint baths.
 
The wetsuit challenge was run in conjunction with the skins swim. All Thirty four swimmers completed the race There was a  bigger Juvenile entry this year with a number of local swimming club teenagers taking part in both sections 

The Whistledown Round the Rock Swim in Skins where the swimmers compet in swim suit  / swim togs
The Whistledown Round the Rock  Wetsuit Challange which was introduced last year Each swimmer recieved a medal at the waterside presented by John Beggs Long standing honnary member of Irish Long Distance Swimming Association on finishing the race then presentations by Colm Mc Evoy of the Whistledown sponser of the event for 1st 2nd 3rd male and female swimmer in each section.
 
William Fergusion Glenbyn was first man home in the skins section in a time of 17.24 followed closely by Bill Donnelly second place 17.33 and Sean Mallon in 3rd in 17.37. The Ladies race was won by Aine Mc Creesh 15 year old Newry and Mourne Club swimmer in a smashing time of 16.30, second to her was Fiona Murphy from Portadown her time 17.26 and 3rd Alison Cardwell in 19.30.
 
The wetsuit section mens race was won by Keith Garry Lurgan  in an excellent  time of 14.43 taking second place was Local hero Myles Mc Court in a time of 17.00 and 3rd was Liam Mathers a first time podium place for him in a time of 17.20
 
The fastest overall swimmer's trophy went to Aine Mc Creesh for her performance 16.30mins is no mean feat for 1.5km first time swim in open water competition
 
The Organisers Stephen Millar, Padraig Mallon, & Maria Murphy would like to Thank Colm Mc Evoy  & his staff for refreshments provided for all participants and supporters in the whistledown Hotel  after the race. 

Spotter cover for swimmers was again provided by Gerry Mc Anuff and his kayakers. Willie Smith, and Carlinford life boats provided safety boat cover for the event 
 
Thank you in anticipation for the coverage of this event