Paddle The Bay challenge goes ahead after one day delay
Former Donegal County Councillor Barry Sweeny says it is ‘back to the drawing board to look at the next opportunity”
The 2026 Paddle The Bay challenge that was scheduled for Sunday, August 30, had to be postponed due to poor weather conditions, has now gone ahead.
It was planned for a group of surfers to paddle across Donegal Bay in aid of Bundoran Community Centre, in a charitable challenge that has so far raised over €5,000.
Taking on the 40km paddle from the foot of Sliabh Liag to the Bundoran Boat Quay are Ryan Allen (Irish Gap Year), James Garvey (Rossnowlagh Surf School), joined by Iarom Madden (surf coach) and supported by Oisín Armstrong (Madden’s Bridge Bar).
Paddle the Bay began in 2024 and has been an annual event since. From last year’s funds, 250 counselling sessions will be provided for young people through the Bundoran Community Centre in 2026.
Former Donegal County Councillor, Barry Sweeny, told Donegal Live: “The Paddle The Bay challenge was all planned for, but it has had to be postponed. There are weather warnings in place, including a moderate to high risk of lightning on the Bay.
“Safety first, but it is a pity after all their preparation.
“It’s back to the drawing board to look at the next opportunity.”
Sweeny has now told Donegal Live: “Quick decision early this morning to do Paddle The Bay!!!!
“The lads are halfway across from St John’s Point.
“They might be in at about 11.30”