Taking a dip in Portumna
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Participants in the Gaelforce Great Lake Swim.Image 2 of 2
Pictured at the Gaelforce Great Lake Swim & Festival in Portumna are, from left: Mona Purcel, Race Director, Gaelforce Events; Alice Sheridan, Galway County Council; Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr Andrew Reddington; Cllr Jimmy McClearn, and Shane Young, Director, Gaelforce Events.Hundreds of swimmers, along with their families and supporters, travelled to Portumna on Saturday, July 11, for the first Gaelforce Great Lake Swim & Festival to be held in the town.
The brilliant weather made for a fantastic day on Lough Derg. Alongside the open-water swimming, the weekend included wellness activities, live music, watersports, family entertainment and a local market.
The event was supported by Galway County Council and Fáilte Ireland. Gaelforce also worked closely with Portumna Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to create a fun, family-friendly weekend in the town.
We were delighted to welcome Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr Andrew Reddington, on Saturday morning to meet the Gaelforce team and see the event in action.
Áine Dunkley, Marketing Manager at Killary Adventure Company and Gaelforce Events, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better first year in Portumna. The weather was brilliant, the town was busy and there was a great atmosphere throughout the weekend.
“The support from Galway County Council, Fáilte Ireland, Portumna Chamber of Commerce and the local community played a huge part in making the weekend such a success. We look forward to bring the festival and event back in 2027.”