Charity swimmers take to the water

Sunday 28 July 2019

Hundreds of swimmers of all abilities are expected to come together on the Havelet shore today for the annual Castle Swim.

This year's event is being held in aid of the Guernsey RNLI and the Guernsey Alzheimer's Association with all participants paying a minimum of £3 entry fee.

Swimmers will see a change in route this year though, with maintenance work on the Castle Cornet slipway still underway. For the first time the swim will begin at the Slaughterhouse slipway and finish at the Horseshoe Bathing Pool at La Vallette.

All swimmers over the age of 11 are able to take part and can register at the starting slipway from 14:30, with the first group setting off at 15:00.

The oldest participant to complete the course will be presented with the Bill Green Memorial Trophy, which has been presented each year since 1996.

Pictured: Bathing Pools and Castle Cornet.

"The annual Castle Swim is a Guernsey institution and we are so pleased that, despite the Castle slipway maintenance, we have found a solution which means the swim can still go ahead," said Guernsey Swimming Club Director Jo Norman. "I would encourage all swimmers to take part regardless of their ability, it is not a race and everyone can swim at their own pace."

The swim usually takes around 25 minutes and anyone looking to take part is encouraged to download the event Disclaimer Form from the Guernsey Swimming Club website and fill it out in advance.

"Louvre is delighted to be once again sponsoring the Castle Swim," said Client Relationship Manager Matthew Gilligan. "We're hoping for good weather and calm conditions for the swimmers and would encourage everyone to come and take part.

"The event always has a fantastic atmosphere and is the perfect combination of fun whilst raising money for two very worth local charities."

Pictured top: Previous Castle Swim.