10/05/2025
Local Swim Group Raises €14,090 for Wicklow RNLI
Swim Smooth Ireland has proudly presented a cheque for €14,090 to Wicklow RNLI lifeboat. This incredible donation marks the culmination of the group's annual pre-Christmas swim event, held at Killashee Hotel, Naas in December 2024. The hotel's generous support in donating pool time makes this cherished tradition possible each year.
The pre-Christmas swim sees over 50 dedicated swimmers dive into the pool at 5 a.m. on a crisp December morning. Participants complete either a 5 km or 10 km swim over the course of approximately four hours. This inspiring event is a celebration of community spirit and resilience, uniting swimmers of all levels to support the life-saving efforts of the RNLI.
Although Swim Smooth Ireland is based in Kildare, the squad trains regularly at Wicklow Harbour during the summer, safe in the knowledge that Wicklow RNLI isn’t too far away. This connection has inspired the squad’s commitment to supporting Wicklow RNLI through their annual fundraising swims. Over the past four years, Swim Smooth Ireland has raised over €46,000 to Wicklow RNLI. These funds go directly toward the RNLI's mission of saving lives at sea, funding crucial equipment, training, and community education. Wicklow Harbour remains a key RNLI location, where volunteers provide a 24-hour rescue service and promote water safety advocacy.
Swim Smooth Ireland founder, Maxine Strain, expressed her gratitude: "We are thrilled to support such an important cause. Our swimmers have shown incredible commitment and generosity, and it's inspiring to see how a shared love for swimming can make a real difference in our community."
The cheque presentation took place at Wicklow Lifeboat Station on Sunday, May 4th, at 10 a.m, where volunteers from Wicklow RNLI Fundraising Branch accepted the donation on behalf of the RNLI. This was followed by a group dip and swim to officially open the Swim Smooth open-water training season. Attendees enjoyed cake and a warm coffee after the chilly swim, making it a memorable morning of celebration and connection.
Swim Smooth Ireland is more than just a swim squad—it’s a community-driven swim coaching group founded by Maxine Strain, dedicated to empowering swimmers of all levels through technique-focused training and open-water skills development. The squad focuses on delivering confidence, belief, challenge, acceptance, support, and community. From mastering the fundamentals of freestyle to pushing the limits in long-distance open-water swimming, Swim Smooth Ireland nurtures swimmers in a supportive and inclusive environment.
For more information about Swim Smooth Ireland or to join future events, please contact Maxine Strain at [email protected] or on their website www.swimsmooth.ie
