Ballybofey swimmer completes historic two‑way Rathlin swim

Open water swimmer Rea Doherty of Ballybofey, together with Derry‑born Garvan McCann, have become the first man and woman to complete the two‑way Rathlin swim, a 21 km crossing from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island and back.

The Gartan Open Water Swimmers duo set off from the Carrick‑a‑Rède rope bridge on 21 September, navigating the challenging waters under Irish Long Distance Swimming Association rules that allow only a swimsuit, hat, goggles and ear plugs, with no contact from the support boat.

Doherty, who battled cancer a few years ago, said the swim was a way of giving back to Cancer Care West, while McCann swam in support of the Foyle Hospice. Both swimmers were fed via a line from their respective support boats, and each relied on a personal crew – Doherty’s team included Karen Crawford, Paddy Doherty and Darragh McGowan.

The round‑trip took Doherty just over six hours and fifteen minutes, covering more than 24 km due to currents. The effort was made possible by Aquaholics of Portstewart, who provided boats, route planning and safety oversight.

Doherty praised the support of local swimming clubs and her husband’s assistance in a kayak during training, describing the achievement as “relieved” and “elated”. The swim also raised funds for the two charities via an online crowdfunder.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Bogdan Chirea / Pexels.