Skipton Swimarathon sets new record with £65,000 raised
AN INCREDIBLE Skipton Swimarathon turnout saw a record-breaking £65,000 raised, with half going to Guernsey Alzheimer’s Association.
Lions Club of Guernsey and Rotary split the remainder, with the latter funding its charity fair on 22 November.
‘As of this moment we have raised £62,794,’ said Jon McLoughlin, organising committee member.
‘2,165 people swam a total distance of 610km. It was just about £60k last year, and there is at least another £2k to add. So we are likely looking at around £65,000 in total.’
Committee chairman Nick Guillemette said: ‘Last year we raised over £60,000 which was a record. Thank you to everyone for your support, not just the swimmers but to sponsors too.’
Every school participated, with Baubigny raising over £4,000 and all Melrose pupils taking part, he said.
‘This is the future generation of swimmers that we want. La Mare’s belly flop competition is something to see.’
Slots were an hour-long finishing at noon on Sunday.
Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink attended the last session, which had Sea Donkey Adrian Sarchet as its ambassador.
Mr Sarchet said: ‘I can’t believe we filled every slot – it’s incredible.’
Guernsey Voluntary Service manager Mandy Le Bachelet was in a team of 14 GVS and GAA members.
Activities co-ordinator Pam Davey said: ‘I’m absolutely loving it, it’s only an hour of your day.’
Aurigny’s Amanda Hobart said: ‘There are 18 in our team across two lanes – it’s the best turnout we’ve had in four or five years.’
Jess Mauger swam with her daughter Isabella, 5, the youngest team member.
‘She’s doing an adult Swimarathon though and loves it. We’ve got matching swimsuits and are flying the puffin for Aurigny. The atmosphere is great here.’
Kelvin Seeds enjoyed seeing colleagues again. ‘We’re all furloughed so we haven’t seen each other since March.’
Lucy Campbell got inventive for fundraising: ‘I got quite a few sponsors last night at the Imperial.’
Guernsey Mencap’s team included Julie and Andrew Hyde, with Lisa Evans, Peter Fernandes and others.
‘Some of our members are swimming and we have our flag day later. We’re really happy to support GAA, a brilliant charity which helps so many people. The organisers have done an amazing job. It’s lovely to see so many families. There’s loads of young talent too - one girl swims like a rocket.’
Gill and Pete Burnard watched from the balcony.
‘I swim the Guernsey way – like granite,’ Mr Burnard said, ‘one of our three daughters is swimming today.’
GAA sitter Jenny Hooper said: ‘Money raised will go for our sitting respite service. Some of us here are sitters. Anybody participating enables us to do our work. It’s been fantastic, and has really brought out the community spirit of people supporting charities.’
