Sunday 13 November, 2016
The annual Swimarathon, organised by the Rotary Club of Kingsbridge Estuary, took place on Friday 14 October 2016 at Quayside Leisure Centre.
Two outstanding local clubs, Kingsbridge Kingfishers Swimming Club (KKSC) and Bantham Surf Life Saving Club (BSLSC) entered 70 swimmers and raised an amazing combined total of £1437. Half of the money raised by Swimarathon teams is returned to the respective club, and the remainder divided between the Rotary's charities, which for 2016 are 'Shared Lives South West' and 'The Freya Foundation'.
In total, the five KKSC teams and four BSLSC teams swam an incredible 1439 lengths.
The Rotary Club team record of 234 lengths was set in 2014 by BSLSC and, as is now tradition, there is an annual 'friendly' swim-off between the two clubs, whilst they both attempt to break the record. This year the Bantham team managed a very respectable 209 lengths, and remain the triumphant record holders, but were denied victory on the day by the KKSC team who swam an impressive 210 lengths.
Swimmers celebrated, enjoying delicious pizzas, afterwards in the Crabshell. Jane, Jordan and team - your kind hospitality is much appreciated. Jo Lawrence, organiser of the BSLSC and KKSC teams expressed huge thanks to all swimmers and sponsors, but especially to the Rotary Club who work so hard every year to make this fantastic event such a resounding success.