A young dad from Waterford has become the first person to ‘paddle-board’ around the island of Ireland.
Jim Swift spent 37 days realising his dream leaving Waterford on the 21st of June to complete the 1,600km journey.
Jim Swift celebrates as he arrives to shore Picture Nigel Kelly
It was a fundraiser for Waterford Hospice and Jim has raised more than €16,000 so far. You can make a donation here.
The secondary school teacher in Gaelcholáiste Phort Láirge paddled back into Tramore yesterday to find hundreds of friends, family and supporters lining the prom.
Jim Swift, wife Meadhbh Walsh and their children Picture Nigel Kelly
Jim was delighted with his performance:
“I knew once I started if I got something under 40 I would be thrilled.
“Once I got to Donegal and I saw the forecast coming in for the next fortnight of strong southerlies coming down the Irish Sea I thought I could kiss goodbye to getting it done under 40
“I really pushed hard and I’m paying the price now, I’m very tired.
“I came down the Irish sea very determined and managed to finish in 37 days. ”
Jim Swift and wife Meadhbh Walsh Picture Nigel Kelly
Jim Swift and wife Meadhbh Picture Nigel Kelly
Supporters of Jim Swift in Tramore Picture Nigel Kelly
Floatilla of paddle boarders coming to shore with Jim Swift Picture Nigel Kelly
Main image also thanks to Nigel Kelly
