Michael McDonnell, Viking Tours, Blair Chatterton, Portaneena Marina, Brian Connell, RNLI, Vincent Gethins, Nichola Mullen, Pieta House, Joanne O’ Connor, Richie O’Hara, BaySports, Charlie Naughton, Brendan Donnellan, Athlone Sub Aqua, Denise Dolan, Councillor Aengus O’ Rourke, Alex Dawson Stanley and David Donnelly, Inny Kayak Club at the launch of the Jim O’ Connor Castle to Castle Swim for Pieta earlier this year. Photo Paul Molloy.

Entries being taken for Jim O'Connor Memorial Castle to Castle Swim

Tadhg Carey

Published: Sun 22 Jun 2025, 11:51 AM

Registrations are now being taken for the Jim O’Connor Memorial Castle to Castle Swim, which is back for its third year on Saturday, August 23.

This 13.5 km swim in Lough Ree honours the memory of Jim O’Connor and raises funds for Pieta, the suicide and self-harm prevention charity.

Since its launch, the swim has raised over €116,000, helping Pieta continue to provide free, life-saving support to those impacted by suicide and self-harm. Participants will swim from Rindoon Castle in Roscommon to Athlone Castle in Westmeath, following a scenic and historic route that has become popular with open-water swimmers from Ireland and beyond.

The swim celebrates Jim O’Connor, who in 2012 swam the length of Lough Ree without a wetsuit, an incredible 34 km, completing it in just over 13 hours. Jim was passionate about open water swimming and supporting his community, and this event continues his legacy.

Joanne O’Connor, Jim’s wife and one of the event organisers, said: “Each year, this swim brings together an incredible community of swimmers, supporters, and volunteers, all united by a love of open water and a commitment to making a difference.

“For all of us too, it’s about honouring Jim’s memory and continuing his legacy. The challenge is tough, but the sense of achievement at Athlone Castle is second to none and knowing that we’re raising vital funds for Pieta makes it even more special.”

This year, it is hoped that 40 solo swimmers and 20 relay teams will participate, with solo swimmers aiming to raise €300 each and relay teams €600 each for Pieta.

For those who aren't ready for the full open-water swim, the new Swim 13K in August challenge allows anyone to take part. Participants can swim 13.5 km at their own pace throughout August, either in their local pool or open water, while raising money for Pieta.

Stephanie Manahan, Chief Executive of Pieta, said: “Every stroke taken in the Jim O’Connor Memorial Castle to Castle Swim or the Swim 13K in August challenge is a powerful reminder that we're not alone in facing life's toughest moments. Whether swimming across the beautiful waters of Lough Ree or completing your challenge at your own pace closer to home, by taking part you will be sending a message of hope, solidarity, and compassion. A huge heartfelt thank you to Joanne, Jim’s family, and the dedicated event organisers, and each and every participant for their incredible support. Together, you're helping Pieta continue to provide vital, life-saving services to those who need us most.”

Participants will receive fundraising support and access to an online community. Registrations for the Castle to Castle Swim are now open at castletocastleswim.ie Registrations for the digital Swim 13K in August challenge will open soon.