Monday 19 February, 2018
The annual Swimarathon, organised by the Rotary Club of Kingsbridge Estuary, took place on Friday, 13 October 2017 at Quayside Leisure Centre.
Two outstanding local clubs, Kingsbridge Kingfishers Swimming Club (KKSC) and Bantham Surf Life Saving Club (BSLSC) entered 78 swimmers and raised an amazing combined total of just under £2000. Half of the money raised by Swimarathon teams is returned to the participating clubs, and the remainder is divided between the Rotary's nominated charities, which this year are 'Home Start South & West Devon' and 'Devon Air Ambulance'.
The five KKSC teams and five BSLSC teams collectively swam an incredible 1526 lengths in the allocated one hour.
The Rotary Club team record of 234 lengths was set back in 2014 by BSLSC and, now there is an annual 'friendly' swim-off between the two clubs, whilst they both attempt to break the record. This year the Bantham team "Tri Ocean Sharks" managed a very respectable 194 lengths, and remain the triumphant record holders, but were denied victory on the day by "Aqua Babes", the KKSC team who, despite being a team member down, swam an impressive 204 lengths.
Swimmers celebrated, enjoying delicious pizzas, afterwards in the Crabshell. "A huge thank you to all swimmers and sponsors for supporting the event and to the Crabshell for its hospitality. Special thanks go to the Rotary Club who work so hard every year to make this fantastic event such a resounding success." said Jo Lawrence, organiser of both the BSLSC and KKSC teams.
The Swimarathon kicked off what was a busy weekend for KKSC swimmers with Round 1 of the National Arena League taking place in Swindon on Saturday and day 3 of the City of Plymouth ASA Meet held at the Life Centre on the Sunday.