Swimming length of River Shannon in aid of Pieta

Dermot Higgins, a 62-year-old adventurer from Skerries, is preparing to undertake an extraordinary challenge—swimming the entire length of the River Shannon, from its source of the Shannon Pot in County Cavan to the mouth of sea in Limerick. Starting on September 12, Dermot aims to become both the oldest and the fastest person to complete the 360 km journey, all while raising €100,000 for Pieta, a charity dedicated to supporting those affected by suicide and self-harm.

“I’m attempting to become the oldest person and beat the speed record of 14 days," Dermot explains. "To my knowledge, only six people have completed this swim. I plan to be the seventh, and do it in just 12 days.”

Dermot will begin in the village of Dowra, County Cavan, and swim approximately 20 km each day, averaging 10 hours of swimming daily. His goal is to reach Limerick on or before September 25.

This challenge holds special significance for Dermot. A retired teacher and principal, Dermot has battled depression three times, the most severe episode occurring during the Covid pandemic, when he was hospitalized and attempted suicide. After retiring in 2017, he turned to extreme outdoor challenges to improve his physical and mental well-being.

“I’m physically strong, but I’ve struggled with my mental health,” Dermot reveals. "I’ve raised over €250,000 for charity in the past, including for Pieta. As a suicide survivor, I know all too well the importance of the resilience training which this amazing charity promotes."

Dermot's previous exploits include becoming the oldest person to cycle around the world, paddling the Shannon in just three days, and surviving a bear attack while paddling the Yukon River from source to sea. Last year, he also became the first Irish person to swim non-stop for 24 hours. Now, he’s returning to the Shannon, having been forced to cancel his first attempt in 2022 due to a serious injury.

Higgins will be supported throughout his swim by Emerald Star-Le Boat, who have generously provided a support boat. The vessel will be crucial, offering navigational assistance, meals, and a base for Dermot and his team as they journey down the river.

"The boat will help keep me on track and provide some comfort after hours in the water. We’re not just surviving out there, we plan to have some fun too!" says Dermot, who is eager to be joined by kayaking and swimming friends from Skerries along the way.

Dermot's goal is to raise €100,000 for Pieta through this ambitious swim. Those who wish to contribute can do so through his Pieta iDonate page at idonate.ie/event/floflodermo.