IMAGINE THE sound of almost 900 people shivering amid a cacophony of chattering teeth. Such was the atmosphere at Galway's Salthill promenade on Christmas morning, when an attempt was made to set the first world record of its type.
Guinness record makers still have to confirm it, but the Cope Galway organisation for the homeless and victims of domestic violence hopes its charity sea swim has made history this year. It had expected 400 participants, but over double that number turned up at Blackrock.
Some were brave enough to jump off the highest diving board. Others, including this reporter, were more circumspect. Among the earliest bathers were the Cope organisers, including development and communications manager Fintan Maher.
Windless dry conditions onshore eased the pain somewhat for bathers, and the only swell was that caused by more enthusiastic participants. Galway's inshore RNLI lifeboat was on hand below the diving board, as were representatives of Irish Water Safety, St John's Ambulance and Salthill Garda station.
There were no incidents, and no reported cases of hypothermia. The most serious hazard appeared to be the regular spilling of hot punch by quivering hands as nearby bathers changed into dry clothes. As the morning wore on, the Cope Galway organisers ran out of T-shirts, tea and coffee and even punch.
Some 1,220 names were signed, but some may have pre-registered. Cope Galway estimates almost 900 actually swam, and has as yet no idea how much has been raised.
Cope Galway's Fairgreen hostel for men has been busy throughout this year, with 26 beds permanently in use. It also runs Osterley Lodge for single women, and Waterside House for those affected by domestic violence.
