SUPPORT west Belfast woman Caoimhe Connor as she takes on the challenge of paddling single-handedly around Ireland.
One Girl And Her Kayak is the culmination of a personal journey for Ms Connor who will be supported by coastal communities around Ireland on her quest. She is raising money for the mental health charity Inspire (formerly Niamh), having battled her own issues with depression.
"Growing up in west Belfast, sadly I have known of so many young adults taking their own lives. In the north of Ireland it is estimated six people take their own life every week," she said.
"I have struggled with my own mental health over the years. Luckily I have been fortunate enough to find strategies to deal with my mental health, such as kayaking, climbing, being active, taking time to read or listen to music.
"Over the past 10 years, I have worked with young people facing massive challenges in their lives and striving to make positive changes to their situation and build their confidence."
Go to www.onegirlandherkayak.com/ or find her at One Girl And Her Kayak – Caoimhe Connor on Facebook to keep up to date with her remarkable Irish odyssey. Good luck Caoimhe.
OPEN WATER SWIMMING
BELIEVE it or not, open water swimming on Ireland's coast is a growing outdoor activity. Yes, Ireland's very own take of Baywatch begins this month as Ballyholme yacht club in Co Down starts its open water swimming season. A good friend of mine has been going for years and loves it.
The club caters for all abilities and from age 16 upwards and this year families are being encouraged to join in. The safety briefing time is 6:45pm for a 7pm swim.
Registering and paying online for all 17 swims is the most cost effective and at £50 for adults and £30 for under-18s, it's good value for money. Otherwise it's £5 per night. The 17 sea swims are scheduled from May 22 until September 11. Spectators are welcome.
Call 028 9127 1467 or go to ballyholme.com/events/open-water-sea-swimming-2017/
