Moy Swim is an iconic event in Ballina's history

A highlight of the Ballina Salmon Festival, the Heyco Moy Swim, will return to this year’s festival on Saturday, July 18.

The event, which is one of Ireland’s oldest and most iconic river swims, starts on the banks of the Moy at St Muredach’s Cathedral and offers a 600m participation swim or a more challenging, competitive 2.5km swim for seasoned swimmers.

In addition to being a standout feature of the Salmon Festival, the Moy Swim has a special place in local history. The original swim started at the famous salmon weirs. Swimmers would dive in and swim to St Muredach’s College. The winning cup, known as ‘The Bishop’s Cup’, was presented to the Swimming Club by the late Bishop of Killala Patrick O’Boyle many years ago.

By taking part in the swim, participants can also become of part of the town’s great history.

Captain Matthew Webb prepared to become the first man to swim the English Channel in 1875 by training in the river Moy.

Captain Webb boasted to fellow drinkers in McDonnell's Pub on Bridge Street (now the Bolg Bui) that he would buy them all a drink after successfully accomplishing his Channel challenge. 

The Moy Swim was held every year up until the 1950s and then went on an extended hiatus until a group of local volunteers banded together to bring it back to its former glory in 2018.

Whether you are new to open water and targeting the 600m swim, or seeking a greater challenge with the 2.5km swim, or simply looking to take in the atmosphere, history and heritage of the waters of the Moy, the Heyco River Moy Swim offers something for all swimmers.

Each participant will receive, a Swim Fest silicone swim hat, and Swim Ireland finisher medal on the day. There will also be a special commemorative gift sponsored by Heyco.

Registration for both swims is now open. Swimming chips and hats will be available from the Kennedy Glasgow Centre from 8am to 9.30am on the day with the swim starting at 10am.