Challenge gives punters a chance to chill out

GETTING tanked at Ford Cork week has taken on a whole new meaning.

Instead of just relaxing on the pier with a pint, a novelty challenge offers the punter a chance to really chill out.

A survival tank simulating the exact conditions experienced daily by crews and helicopter rescue teams on North Sea oil rigs is ready and waiting for the brave and the bold to really take the plunge.

Stationed in Crosshaven for the duration of one of Europe's biggest sailing events, the Helly Hansen survival tank is 3.5 metres high, 1.5 metres wide and holds 4,000 litres of water chilled to 5 degrees C.

Irish Examiner reporter Ronan Corkery became one of the first in the country to test the waters. The rush was almost as good as a bungie jump.

"As I put on my wetsuit in the shadow of the tank, my fears of an early drowning grew stronger and stronger, and I wasn't helped by the guy in charge who told me in a laid-back manner that it was his first time setting up the tank.

"Suddenly I envied the people around me, supping their pints and laughing at my bright orange suit, secretly hoping for a major slip up.

"The reality is the tank is enjoyable, you can float in the water while checking out what is happening from a nice vantage point above the crowds, and still be the centre of attention, even if only for a couple of minutes.

"The suits provided go on over your clothes and are so insulated that it is hard to feel the true temperature of the water.

The original idea for the tank came from an old Italian wine vat, which the inventor thought would make a good side-show at events that attract large groups of people.

"We have displayed the tank at some business events in Germany, but Ireland is the first country where the unique experience is open to the public,'' said Helly Hansen spokesperson Alice Driscoll.