Swimming

Swimming is an excellent sport for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. It has been practiced for many years by individuals of all ages, for competition, fitness, and fun. Swimmers compete in three sight classifications as defined by IBSA with B1 no sight at all, and B3 being up to 10 %. In B1 competition, swimmers must wear darkened goggles.

A team coach directs the takeover for relays, as the swimmers may not be able to see their team-mate approaching. Allowances are made in the rules for B1 swimmers who may be too close to a lane line to execute technically correct arm strokes or touches in butterfly or breaststroke.

Swimming sessions take place weekly in Belvedere College, Dublin 1, under the auspices of the National League of the Blind; and fortnightly in the Markieviz Pool in Townsend Street, Dublin 2, under the guidance of coach, Frank Cullinane.

IBS is in the process of trying to set up other swimming groups around the country. Currently, we are in negotiations with centres in Sligo and Limerick. Please let us know if you can help in bringing swimming to your area – we’d love to hear from you.

If you would like to take the plunge, as a swimmer or volunteer, please contact us.

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