Mayo swimming group 'bursting with pride' over Carol's feat

The Kilcummin Swim Group is bursting with pride as members celebrate one of their own — Carol Commons — completing the North Channel Swim in some of the toughest conditions imaginable

This achievement has been five years in the making, with Carol dedicating the last 12 months to 100% focus and hard training.

Last Monday’s swim was Carol’s third attempt at this crossing — and after 18 hours, 58 minutes, and 28 seconds of sheer grit, courage, and determination, she finally conquered it.

In doing so, Carol made history: she is the first person from Connaught to complete the North Channel Swim.

She now joins the record books as the 73rd woman ever and only the 181st person in history to finish this incredible challenge — widely regarded as the toughest swim in the world.

A post on the club's Facebook page state: "We want to give huge thanks to the amazing team around her:

"Coach Steven for your guidance and belief.

"Pilot Jack and his brilliant crew Jen for steering her through.

"Swim buddy Sean for being on board and courageously jumping in for not one, not two, but three support swims — an incredible effort.

"And, of course, to Jacqueline and Padraig, founders of Infinity Channel Swimming — without your vision, dedication, and support, this would never have been possible. Hats off to you both and the Infinity family.

"Special thanks as well to everyone who followed the swim live and cheered Carol on from near and far.

"And a huge shoutout to the Kilcummin crew — Diane, Louise, Orlaigh, Fiona and Niamh — who drove four hours up to Bangor just to welcome Carol off the boat. That meant the world.

"We also want to sincerely thank everyone in the community for the amazing support — from the bonfires, signs, and decorations along the roads, to the warm welcome at Carol’s home, and the unforgettable homecoming in Killala. What a show of love and pride for an incredible achievement.

"Now it’s time to celebrate properly!

"We invite everyone to join us this Friday night in Bessie’s Bar, Lacken, to honour Carol and her outstanding accomplishment. Let’s give her the celebration she deserves.

"Everyone in the Kilcummin Swim Group and well beyond is unbelievably proud of Carol. You’ve shown us what resilience, passion, and teamwork can achieve, and you’ve inspired us all."