The Mayor Foyle Challenge Training Plans

The Mayor Foyle Challenge Training Plans

Taking on the Mayor’s Foyle Challenge on 16 May 2026? Whether you're building towards 1K or preparing for the full 3K tidal swim, we’ve created structured 12-week training plans to guide you every step of the way.

Developed with the support of Danny Quigley, these plans are designed to help you progress safely, build endurance and arrive at the River Foyle confident and prepared.

Choose Your Distance

1KM Training Plan

Designed for competent pool swimmers or those new to open water. If you can comfortably swim shorter distances in the pool and want to build towards completing 1K with confidence, this plan will gradually increase your endurance over 12 weeks. You’ll complete three sessions per week, building towards a continuous 1,000m swim by Week 12.



3KM Training Plan

Suitable for swimmers with open-water experience who are comfortable covering longer distances. This structured 12-week programme includes endurance work, pacing development and progressive continuous swims, building up to 3,000m ahead of event day.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

If you haven’t registered yet, now is the time to commit to your 12-week journey.

Sign up for the Mayor’s Foyle Challenge here