Isle of Man's open water swimmers warm up for third annual 'Manx Mile' 

Hardy dippers who prefer the sea to the swimming pool might like to know that the Isle of Man's annual 'Manx Mile' open water swim is now just around the corner. 

The swim takes place in picturesque Chapel Bay, in the southerly village of Port St Mary, on Saturday 2nd July, as part of the Queenie Festival (Friday 1st – Sunday 3rd July), the Island's annual 'Celebration of the Sea'. 

Now in its third year, the Manx Mile attracts entrants from all sporting backgrounds, from recreational and club swimmers to triathletes and divers. Open to swimmers of all ages and abilities, the event is suitable for both experienced open water swimmers and newcomers to the sport. 

Starting from the beach at 2pm, the swim follows a triangular course around the bay before returning to the shore. There is a half-mile event for junior or novice swimmers, and trophies to be claimed in both categories. Participants can either wear wetsuits or brave the cold in swimsuits and shorts. 

Open water swimming is currently enjoying a resurgence of interest across the British Isles, as evidenced by the immense popularity of the Great Swim series. Swimming in a wild environment offers a unique challenge, as well as being a great way to keep fit, meet new people and see new places – or familiar places from a different vantage point! 

The Isle of Man has a long history of bay swims, with past events at Douglas, Ramsey, Peel, Port Erin and Port St Mary. Having picked up the tradition, the Manx Mile looks set to be a long-running event, with the number of entrants – including those from off-Island – increasing each year. 

The Manx Mile is organised by Mark Gorry from the Isle of Man Open Water Swimming Club, whose members meet regularly for informal swims throughout the year.   

Beyond the Manx Mile, Queenie Festival-goers will have the chance to try snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking. The ocean-going theme continues with a trawler race, a beach party, marine life touch tanks and even a Herring Dance, giving residents and visitors plenty of reasons to be beside the seaside. 

Entry forms for the Manx Mile are available from Mark Gorry - call (07624) 430631 or email markgorry@hotmail.com. Alternatively, you can download a form from the Facebook event page. 

www.queeniefestival.com