Guernsey Mind has been chosen as the charitable beneficiary of this year’s Castle Swim sponsored by Louvre Group.
The event, taking place on Saturday 29 August, will for the second year start at the Slaughterhouse slipway and finish at the Horseshoe Pool at La Vallette.
All swimmers over the age of 11 years are invited to take part in the open-water swim. The oldest swimmer to complete the course will be presented with the Bill Green Memorial Trophy. The trophy has been presented each year since 1996.
Emily Litten, Executive Director, Guernsey Mind, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as this year’s beneficiary. Obviously with the effects of the Covid pandemic and so many events having been cancelled, fundraising is a strong focus for us to continue our work and raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the Bailiwick. We are very much looking forward to the swim”.
The swim is open to all abilities and takes on average 25 minutes to complete but everyone is encouraged to take part at their own pace. There is a minimum donation of £3 to swim, with all donations going to Guernsey Mind.
Jo Norman, Director of the Guernsey Swimming Club, said: “We are so pleased this year’s Castle Swim is able to go ahead. WIth so many more people enjoying sea swimming recently we are very much looking forward to a record turnout. Everyone of all abilities are welcome to take part, it is not a race”.
Matthew Gilligan, Associate Director Louvre Group, said: “Swimming is fantastic for good mental health, so we couldn’t think of a better beneficiary for the annual Castle Swim than Guernsey Mind. We’re delighted to once again be sponsoring the swim. The event is a Guernsey institution and the summer wouldn’t be the same without it”.
Swimmers can register at the Slaughterhouse slipway from 2.30pm, those wishing to take part are encouraged to download the events Disclaimer Form from the Guernsey Swimming Club website found here and fill it out in advance to present at the swim registration. Swimmers will set off in groups at timed intervals, the first group of 50 swimmers will begin at 3.30pm.
