"In 1920, Brendan Fagan, a swimmer and assistant public health analyst for Dublin Corporation, today known as the Dublin City Council, performed a chemical and bacteriological analysis of the Liffey River and found that the the water was relatively clean, a strong statement for any urban waterway in the early 20th century!" Please see the PDF attached to read Elaine K Howley's full story on how the Liffey swim started nearly 100 years ago.

Are you missing out?

This article is just one of many from the September issue of Outdoor Swimmer magazine. Our late summer edition includes a piece by author William Thomson who explores what makes tides and how they affect swimming conditions; Keri-anne Payne suggests going back to basics to develop a strong and efficient pull; Ella Foote meets Tom Kay, the man behind the first fully recyclable wetsuit and eco hero and upcycling dress designer, Linda Thomas; Coach Cassie provides advice on how to stop bilateral breathing throwing you off course; PLUS full events listings, nutrition, gear and stunning photography.

Subscribe to Outdoor Swimmer today and select "October" as your start issue to ensure you don't miss out. We will also send you a reuseable cup worth £11.95 and the September issue FREE!