The Sandycove Island Challenge is an open-water swimming race. It has been held annually at Sandycove, Kinsale, Co Cork since 1994.
The course is from the slipway at Sandycove, around Sandycove Island and back to the slipway. The total distance is approximately 1,800m. If sea conditions are unsuitable on the day, a more sheltered course is followed.

General info:

The Sandycove Island Challenge swim was first held in 1994. Cork Masters Swimming Club and Cork Lions Club plan to run the swim annually as a joint charity event. It is being promoted as a mass-participation and fun event, but with a serious competitive element for those so inclined.

The swim is approx 1,800m around Sandycove island. Safety measures, including boat support, will be implemented as per Swim Ireland recommendations. A detailed briefing on safety resources and procedures will be given on the day. All participants will receive a commemorative swim hat and lapel pin.

The last date for receipt of entries is 16 August, 2009. The Organising Committee reserves the right to close entries at an earlier date, if the numbers received exceed 180. For further information, telephone +353 87 987 1573, email or see www.corkmasters.ie

Date of Birth Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd places for both men and women in the following age groups (non-wetsuit only): 12 to 17 years, 18 to 24, 25 to 29, 30 to 34, 35 to 39, etc (i.e. in five-year increments as high as necessary to accommodate all entries).