THE hunt is on for intrepid swimmers to take the plunge and participate in the Manx Mile sea challenge.

The event is being staged as part of the 2011 Queenie Festival and is open to swimmers of all ages. Now in its third year it attracts recreational swimmers, club swimmers, tri-athletes and divers.

Starting from Chapel Beach in Port St Mary at 2pm on Saturday, July 2, the swim will follow a triangular course around the bay before returning to the shore.

The course is clearly marked with buoys and kayakers to provide safety support from the start to the finish.

It is an ideal opportunity for people to try open water swimming and can be done to raise money for a charity or simply as a personal challenge.

There is also a half mile event for junior or novice swimmers with trophies to be claimed in both categories.

The Manx Mile is being organised by Mark Gorry from the Isle of Man Open Water Swimming Club, whose members meet regularly for informal swims throughout the year.

Anyone wishing to put in practice sessions for the Manx Mile can join the club on Sunday mornings. Simply meet at the Port Erin slipway (between the Raglan Pier and the Lifeboat station) at 10.30am. 

Those wishing to take part in the event must pre-register by contacting Mark Gorry on 07624 430631 or by e-mailing markgorry@hotmail.com.

The Queenie Festival takes place between Friday, July 1 and Sunday, July 3.