Tracy Piggott raises over €50,000 for Kildare charity
Tracy Piggott celebrates after completing Swimming in Silence, a gruelling 14km underwater endurance swim across Galway Bay, in record time, in aid of Sensational Kids. Spending up to five hours underwater in challenging Atlantic conditions, Tracy undertook the extraordinary challenge to raise vital funds for therapy services for children with additional needs. To donate, visit www.sensationalkids.ie. Photo : Murtography
KILCULLEN resident and former RTÉ’s racing correspondent Tracy Piggott has successfully completed an extraordinary underwater endurance swim across Galway Bay, raising over €50,000 for Sensational Kids.
The Kildare-based national charity provides life-changing therapy services to children with additional needs across Ireland.
Battling cold Atlantic waters, changing tides, fatigue and up to four hours and 45 minutes beneath the surface, Piggott completed the approximately 14Km crossing from Finavarra Point in Clare to Blackrock, Salthill, Galway, in a remarkable display of resilience, determination and endurance.
The challenge, which had originally been planned to take place during Galway Race Week (28 July), had to be rescheduled due to a maritime small vessel weather warning, but Tracy ultimately returned to a feat she had first accomplished in 1998.
The fundraiser, titled ‘Swimming in Silence’, was inspired by Tracy's belief that no child should struggle unheard and that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential through timely support and intervention.
“I’m delighted to have completed this underwater swim,” said Tracey.
“It’s something that I’ve been thinking about doing again for many years, and I cannot think of a better reason than raising awareness and funds for Sensational Kids.
“Even though it was a gruelling and sometimes very challenging experience, I know that it is nothing compared to what some parents must endure for years and years.
“I just want to thank everybody for their support.
“Please keep donating if you can. I will continue to raise funds and raise awareness for Sensational Kids long into the future.” The Boyne Fishermen's Rescue and Recovery Service served as Tracy's support crew throughout her training, providing expertise, reassurance and practical assistance that were critical to its success.
On the day of the challenge, Dara Bailey supported Tracy.
He was responsible for navigation, safety, and working with the tides, wind, and the ever-changing sea state.
“The Boyne Fishermen’s Rescue and Recovery Service have been much more than a support team; they have been a vital part of this journey.” However, I am delighted to have Dara Bailey, a seventh-generation fishermen, as my support crew today.
“He was crucial in the successful completion of the challenge. Without his commitment on the day, it would not have been possible.” Karen Leigh, Founder and CEO of Sensational Kids, congratulated Tracy on the achievement.
"What Tracy has accomplished today is truly inspirational,” said Karen.
“Her courage, commitment and determination have captured the imagination of people across Ireland and shone a spotlight on the challenges many families face in accessing essential therapy supports for their children.
“We are incredibly grateful to Tracy for choosing Sensational Kids as the beneficiary of this remarkable challenge.
“Every euro raised will help us continue providing life-changing therapy and support to children with additional needs and their families when they need us most."
Funds raised through the campaign will help reduce the cost of therapy services for families, provide subsidised and free services to those most in need.
Since launching the challenge, Tracy has received widespread public support from individuals, businesses, community groups and supporters across Ireland, all united by a shared commitment to ensuring children can access the support they need without unnecessary delays.
Sensational Kids has supported more than 11,000 children through its Child Development Centres since 2007, providing services including Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Play Therapy and Educational Psychology Assessments.
With lengthy waiting lists continuing to impact families nationwide, fundraising initiatives such as Swimming in Silence play a critical role in expanding access to vital services.
Sunday's successful crossing stands as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved through determination, compassion and community support.
While Tracy's swim may be over, the campaign continues, and supporters are encouraged to donate and help create brighter futures for children across Ireland.
The challenge was proudly supported by key sponsors Wild Churn Gelato and The Salthill Hotel, whose generosity and commitment played an important role in making the event possible.
