Hundreds of women are set to descend on Magheramore Beach this weekend in a sea of neon colours, leg warmers and big hair as the popular Strip and Dip fundraising event returns with ambitions of securing a third Guinness World Record.
Taking place on Saturday, June 6, the annual women-only event will attempt to break the record for the largest gathering of people dressed in 1980s clothing, adding another chapter to its unique history of combining charity fundraising with world-record achievements.
Now in its 13th year, Strip and Dip has become one of Ireland’s most recognisable fundraising events, bringing together women from across the country for a symbolic dip in the Irish Sea in support of Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, a charity that assists families affected by childhood cancer.
Since its inception, the event has raised more than €1.4 million. The funds have helped deliver Aoibheann’s Lighthouse in Crumlin, a dedicated respite home providing accommodation and support for families during a child’s cancer treatment.
This year’s event embraces an 80s theme, with participants encouraged to don retro outfits and vibrant accessories before taking part in the charity dip.
Organisers are hopeful the colourful spectacle will be enough to secure another world-record title. Strip and Dip first entered the record books in 2018 when it achieved the world’s largest skinny dip. During the Covid-19 pandemic, participants helped secure a second Guinness World Record for the most photos of people in water taken within one hour as part of a virtual dip initiative.
Event organiser Dee Featherstone said excitement was building ahead of the latest record attempt.
“If you’ve ever needed an excuse to dust off the neon and go all out, this is it,” she said.
“Strip and Dip is about stepping outside your comfort zone, having a laugh with like-minded women and doing something genuinely meaningful at the same time. We want to see the beach packed with colour, energy and plenty of 80s spirit.”
Funds raised through the event will go directly to Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, helping the charity continue providing practical and emotional support to families, including emergency accommodation for those travelling long distances while their child undergoes treatment.
Registration remains open, with organisers encouraging participants to sign up early and embrace the retro theme for what promises to be a memorable day on the Wicklow coast.
