Ned Denison organised a group to swim in Myrtleville this morning, as a kick-off to the conference this weekend.  As well as lots of local swimmers, Ned was joined by Ram Barkai, founder of the International Ice Swimming Association and Annaleise Carr, who in 2012 at 14 years old, became the youngest person to swim across Lake Ontario, taking just under 27 hours.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get a picture of Ram, as he ended up swimming a marathon with Carmel Collins.  Last seen passing Power Head…..

Some of this morning’s group (still waiting for Ram and Carmel…..) Carol Cashell, Damian O’Neill, David Merriman, Ned Denison, Eddie Irwin, Finbarr Hedderman, Rob Bohane, Annaleise Carr & Maeve Mulcahy.

As a big bonus for Ned, he got to have his picture taken with two of his heroes.  One of them, unfortunately, was falling asleep……

Unsponsored Ned Denison with high profile Diesel Powered local swimmers. Or, Bernard and Damian’s annual picture with Ned ‘One of the big guys’ Denison.

But he woke up for this one…..

Bernard and Ned.

As always, Siobhan Russell’s dedication to the cause is unbelievable.  Dragged herself out of bed this morning to get the pictures as we came in.  It was too dark when we went out, although Riana Parsons tried a few so we might have those to post soon.

Finishing the morning swim.

Only 4ºC on land but 14ºC in the water – toasty.

Sun coming up, time for work!

Seriously, though, is there anyone left in Sandycove, Rob?  Finbarr?

Finbarr Hedderman, Maeve Mulcahy & Rob Bohane.

A great start to a great weekend.  Usual swim at 8.15am (AKA, lunchtime) tomorrow.