My name is Barbara Conneely O Brien from Inis Mór in the Aran Islands. Being born and raised in a fishing family made me respect the power of the sea early on and also the danger it can pose with many tragedies having occurred through the years resulting in the loss of precious lives. 

I’m undertaking my first open water swim from Inis Meáin to Inis Mór across Gregory’s Sound which is a distance of approximately 3km planned for the week of 5th August 2023, in honour of the Aran Islands RNLI.  The many lives they have saved through the dedicated, tireless and heroic efforts of her crew, past and present, most of whom are voluntary members. Whenever tasked 24/7/365 they are ready to answer that call to save lives be it a boat in danger out at sea or a ‘medivac’ from any of the three Aran Islands. 

Finally, and especially I’m also doing this swim to honor the memories of those who have died as a result of tragedies at sea. 

Go raibh maith agaibh as tacú le obair bhád tarrthála Oileáin Árainn.