Soroptimist Swimathon

It doesn’t matter whether you swim fast or slow, do crawl or doggy-paddle, so long as you are over 8 years of age and can rustle up a team of six, you can take part in this Swimathon.  It is one of the most successful fund-raising events in the South West, having raised just over £525,000 in the last 24 years.

Every swimmer gets a medal, and there are a number of trophies to be won for teams raising the most sponsorship money, or swimming the most lengths.  Amongst the trophies are two new ones (provided by Taunton School) one aimed at primary schools and the other aimed at secondary schools.  Lots of young people take part in the Swimathon, and they all enjoy it.

In fact, some of the ‘young’ people are in their 80s, and they have a great time too!  Indeed, there is a new trophy for the team of over 65s raising the most money in sponsorship.

Swimathon Co-ordinator, Jane Fitzgerald said “Teams from all over the Taunton community take part in our Swimathon, including Banks, Accountancy firms, the Hydrographic Office, Musgrove Park Hospital, the Hospice, schools – and many, many more.  It is a real community event, and there is a great buzz.  Teams come back, year after year, and they always have a great time”.

A number of local charities will benefit from the proceeds of the 2012 Swimathon: St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice, Citizens Advice Bureau, SURE (Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment) and the President’s Charity, SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death).

During the last twenty four years, the Swimathon has raised over half a million pounds, the vast majority of which has been given directly to a variety of local charities including in 2011, St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice,  Somerset Sight, Taunton Association for the Homeless and STAR.  Charities who would like to be considered for benefit in future years, should get in touch with the organizers for further information.

Taunton School is the main sponsor of this event, together with valued support from Alpha Trophies, Moda Marketing Design & Advertising, Pardoes Solicitors, Protech Office Services and Rockwell Printers.

So get on the phone or e-mail to book your lane or request more information.  Phone 01823 423187 or e-mail the Swimathon Booking Officer.  Come and join in the Swimathon;  it’s the most fun you could have on a cold weekend in February – and you can get a rosy glow by raising some money for local good causes.