Barefield man beats diving record on second attempt

Barefield’s Christy set the record on Sunday morning on Lough Derg in Killaloe. Only three weeks previously, the experienced diver had attempted this mammoth challenge from Doolin Pier but had to pull up due to difficulties on the 9.4km mark just when his goal was in sight. 
“After the set back a few weeks ago, I was determined not to be beaten. I am absolutely thrilled, and relieved I might add, to have completed what I pledged to all of those who have contributed and supported me throughout,” said Christy.
“The entire team were not willing to give up and all the training, organisation and hard work has paid off.”
A team of more than 20 people, including snorkelers, rescue divers, paramedics, navigators, observers and support personnel descended on the shores of Lough Derg at 7am on Sunday.
After preparations were complete, the flotilla was launched and travelled 15km out into the lake.
Christy was deployed into the water where he submerged and did not surface until he received the signal that he had reached his goal six hours and 21 minutes later. In doing so Christy became the first man ever to swim 10km underwater without surfacing.
Guinness World Records are not awarded easily and attention to detail, logging of information and recording of vital aspects of the record attempt are paramount. Photographs, video and technical evidence, and media reports as well as impeccable record keeping are required. The records and evidence collected by the appointed teams will now be submitted to the Guinness World Records Office for confirmation of the achievement.
Shay Kinsella, founder of Share A Dream Foundation, stated, “Christy is a fantastic man to attempt this world record once again in only three weeks. His determination and strength totally identifies with the children we work with who are battling everyday of their lives with illness,”
“Christy knows all too well about fighting illness and the immense effect it has on the whole family as his own son, Stephen fought his battle with cancer only last year. It always amazes me that these are the kind of people that want to give back and continue to help others,”
“All children are entitled to a bit of fun and happiness and that’s all Share a Dream are trying to do and it’s only through the fantastic efforts of people like Christy Healy that we can continue to bring a smile to the faces of these children,” Shay concluded.