The 105th Dublin City Liffey Swim delivered one of its most memorable chapters on Saturday, as 71-year-old Derek ‘Bimbo’ Wilkes of North Dublin Swimming and Water Polo Club claimed victory in the men’s race – 36 years after he first lifted the Liffey Cup.

Competing in his 55th Liffey Swim, Wilkes held off younger challengers to take the title once again. “Fabulous. Unbelievable,” he said afterwards. “I didn’t think I could do it. I just kept saying stroke, stroke, stroke – and I was blessed to get there.”

In the women’s race, Ocean Breakers Masters swimmer Liz Keary, 52, delivered a brilliant performance to come home first in 41 minutes and five seconds. “I’m feeling elated, overjoyed, can’t believe it,” she said. “We’re a small club, but so supportive of each other – this is a prize for all of us.”

Over 320 swimmers completed the race, hosted by Swim Ireland with the support of Dublin City Council.

The Liffey Swim remains one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting events, drawing competitors from across the country and beyond.

“We’ve had yet another wonderful day of our community coming together,” said Sarah Keane, Swim Ireland CEO, who competed in the event herself.

“We could not have delivered today’s race without the amazing support of Dublin City Council, our volunteers and partners. Congratulations to Derek and Liz and all those who competed – we look forward to seeing everyone again next year.”

Image Credit Swim Ireland Social Media

 

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