Proud distinction for Mayo woman who made history by swimming North Channel

A member of Kilcummin Swimming Club is to be presented with a Mayo People of the Year Award later this month.

Carol Commons made history in August when she became the first Connaught person to swim across the North Channel between Ireland and Scotland.

On Monday, August 18, when she emerged from the bitterly cold seawater north of Port Patrick in Scotland, she did so as part of history.

The Killala woman endured some of the most gruelling conditions, including the bitter cold, as she braved the seas during the night and the stings of jellyfish.

On Sunday, August 17, she set off from Larne with her sights fully set on Scottish shores.

This was new territory for a Connaught swimmer, but steeliness was in no short supply in spite of the challenges.

Carol, a Ballina dental practice worker, could have undertaking this mammoth task solo - but she had an army alongside her as she was joined in a show of support by friends on board her accompanying boat, including her closest friends from Kilcummin Swimming Club.

The 31st Mayo People of the Year Awards will be presented at the gala banquet in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, on Friday night, November 21.

The event is organised by RehabCare, Mayo County Council and The Connaught Telegraph.