A CHAMPION is still a champion — even if they are covered in mud. Yesterday, a new winner — and world record holder — was crowned when Peter Cunningham shaved six seconds off the previous record, in the annual bog snorkelling championships. Peter (29), from Blackrock, Dublin, was one of 60 people taking part in the annual event just outside Castleblaney, Co Monaghan. The men’s event was closely fought with the winning time of 1 min 24 secs by Mr Cunningham, which exceeded the world record of 1 min 30 secs.
Bog snorkelling is a sporting event that consists of competitors completing two consecutive lengths of a 60-yard (55 m) water filled trench cut through a peat bog, in the shortest time possible. Competitors must wear snorkels and flippers, and complete the course without using conventional swimming strokes, relying on flipper power alone. Wet suits are not compulsory, but are usually worn.