About us

The Irish Long Distance Swimming Association was formed in 1966 and held its first season of events the following year, both North and South of Ireland, at a time when open water swimming was generally and relatively unknown. From small beginnings the ILDSA over the decades has expanded greatly in size and stature and now has an International reputation. We are a club that is affiliated to Swim Ireland and the British Long Distance Swimming Association. ILDSA is known to all the Governing Bodies of swimming worldwide.

Any swimmer wishing to be part of ILDSA can therefore also take part in all the Swim Ireland OW swim calendar throughout the country. Any enquiries to the website.

The ILDSA, from a small number of events on its calendar in their first year, has now over 20 annually, ranging from the short “starter” swims to encourage newcomers into open water, to the Irish Championship, a distance of 17km, which is used by many people as a preparation for longer swims such as the English and North Channels. Our Lough Sheelin swim acts as a fantastic preparation for the world famous Lake Zurich swim which 5 Irish Swimmers competing this year. The sport has grown tremendously all over Ireland with events to suit all ages and abilities. The ILDSA also offers advice on swimming in cold water, training methods, encouragement and support.