Swim Ireland Open Water Conference 2026

Swim Ireland OPEN WATER CONFERENCE 2026

23^RD MAY • HUDSON BAY HOTEL, ATHLONE • 10:00 – 16:00

Join us for our inaugural Open Water conference bringing together swimmers, coaches, and enthusiasts for a day of insight, innovation, and collaboration in the world of open water swimming.

Key Note Speaker - Darragh Morgan

Darragh will speak about his journey of swimming around Ireland last year, completing the first-ever tidal-assisted stage swim around the entire island of Ireland, covering over 1,500km.

Water Safety in Open Water Swimming  

Open water is unpredictable. Safety must be proactive.

Designed for swimmers, and coaches, this presentation focuses on building a strong safety culture within the open water community.

Leave No Trace - Protecting the Waters We Swim In

Open water swimming depends on healthy ecosystems. Sustainability is not optional — it is essential.

Learn how individuals and organisations can actively contribute to long-term water protection.

Practical Session for Coaches and Swimmers.

In the afternoon we will take to the Open Water in the stunning Lough Ree. For coaches its a chance to learn new practices  and for swimmers an opportunity for a coached session led by some of our experienced Swim Ireland Open Water Coaches 

Who Should Attend?

• Open water swimmers (recreational & competitive)
• Swim coaches
• Triathletes
• Sports Development staff

Cost: €49 per person

5 CPD Points are available for attending this conference.
Includes refreshments and light lunch and goodie bag.