The Jim O’Connor Memorial Castle to Castle Swim is back for its third year on Saturday, 23rd August 2025. 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.
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. Event organisers, Athlone Regional Sports Centre are providing a 16 week training programme for all who sign up to the solo swim.
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.
Participants will receive training plans, 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.
