Skipton Swimarathon flooded by applications

Close to 176 teams have flocked to register their participation as part of the 42nd annual charity swimming fundraiser. Over 70% of the 256 swimming slots available have now been booked, with registration only having been open for three weeks.

Swimarathon committee Chairman, Nick Guillemette, explains why he feels Islanders are so supportive of this year’s event: “We have a very deserving beneficiary this year in the form of the Village Project at Les Murier School. Helping those from the school and the wider community learn independent living skills is something which I believe strikes a chord in many islanders and is a project which many would like to contribute towards.

“We are also about to re-launch our Corporate Awards Scheme which is designed to encourage corporate entrants to raise as much funds as possible. There are still over 100 teams who have previously participated who are yet to register, so we would encourage as many as possible to book early to avoid disappointment.”

It is anticipated that entry to the Skipton Swimarathon may have to close early, something which has never happened in past years. The Island’s largest community fundraising event raised a record amount of £56,000 for local charities on its 40^thanniversary in 2016 and it is hoped that this sum can be exceeded this year, given the unprecedented level of support so far. Last year saw a record number of swimmers take part from schools, clubs, community groups and corporate firms, with over 2,500 swimmers taking to the pool.

Gary Dovey, Skipton Swimarathon Ambassador and co-coordinator of the Village Project, said: “I’m very encouraged by the response and interest we’ve had in the project to date, it would be wonderful to think that with the support of the Skipton Swimarathon and those taking part that we could finish the log cabins and have this project up and running before the end of the year for the island to enjoy.”