This month, from August 18 to 23, Gary Plummer will take to the Atlantic off Fanore and not stop swimming until Inis Óirr comes into view. That’s 16 kilometres of open water, but this swim extends far beyond endurance for Gary.
Gary is taking on the solo swim in aid of Galway Autism Partnership. The local charity provides support, training, and advocacy for autistic people and their families throughout Galway city and county. They run social groups, life skills programmes, family supports, and community education initiatives that promote understanding, inclusion, and independence.
For Gary and his family, this swim takes on a deeper meaning. Gary’s eldest son, Jack, is on the spectrum, and the organisation has supported their family directly. Jack has been an integral cog in the training machine, joining his father in the water, paddling alongside him for safety during training swims near Roundstone and Inishlacken Island.
The 16km distance alone would daunt most swimmers, but Gary’s preparation has been methodical. Already an avid swimmer, this has been a mammoth task. He spent the winter building fitness in the pool before moving training to the sea in March. Gradually, he shed the wetsuit for skins by April as he built up tolerance to the cold. Now, Gary swims five times a week, with one lighter recovery session and a full rest day built into his schedule.
Gary’s wife, Sarah, has been instrumental as she has been spreading the word through WhatsApp groups and the wider community. A real team effort, Gary has built the swim date around ensuring sons Jack and Liam, as well as wife Sarah would be home from their holidays in Canada to see Gary take on the crossing.
Gary has set an initial fundraising target of €16,000 - €1,000 for every kilometre - with every cent going toward the services that have made such a difference to families in Galway.
To donate or find out more, visit https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/garyplummer.
