Over 40 miles of swimming raises funds for grief support charity

DURING the sixth Thame Swimathon, that took place at Thame Leisure Centre on Sunday, February 25, an incredible 2,640 lengths were covered by the teams that took part – that’s 66 kilometers – almost 41 miles! And so far they have raised over £4,000.

The sponsors of the Swimathon, organised by Thame Rotary, were Thame Leisure Centre, Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust, Aston Hearing, and Ignite Sport. Their contributions covered most of the costs, so that more money could be directed towards Thame Rotary’s chosen charity, SeeSaw. Volunteer support was given by Thame Lions, Thame Inner Wheel, Princes Risborough Rotary, Wheatley Park School Interact Club as well as family members and friends of Thame Rotarians.

The four teams from Barley Hill School proudly show their certificates

Tom Wyse, the Mayor of Thame, awarded medals to the swimmers in recognition of their fundraising and physical efforts. Tom said afterwards: “I really enjoyed visiting the Swimathon on Sunday. It was a great event to raise money for the charities. I wish I had the energy that all those swimmers possessed!”

Jo Sackett, of Barley Hill School PTFA, who recruited four teams of pupils, said: “It is such a pleasure to organise teams to take part in this wonderful event. Everyone is so enthusiastic; we raised an amazing amount of money and the children love every minute of it. We are very proud of all of them and can’t wait for next year!”

Thame Swimming Club participated with 10 teams. Will Hard, Thame Swimming Club’s Communications Manager, added: “Our swimmers had great fun today at the Rotary Club of Thame Swimathon, whilst raising money for a worthwhile charity. Thank you to the Rotary Club for running such a well organised event. See you next year!”

Pete Quartly participated with his family for the first time. He said: “This was a fantastic event; run very slickly, and massively enjoyed by the family. We will be there next year.”

Marius Ciortan helped to organise and promote the Thame Swimathon. He said: “Most of the teams have taken the option to allocate 50% of the money raised towards their favourite cause, and 50% towards Thame Rotary’s main local charity, SeeSaw. John Singer, President of the Rotary Club of Thame, added: “It’s been another highly successful fundraising Thame Swimathon. Everyone involved on Sunday seemed to be having a great time with plenty of enthusiastic support from family and friends – a really great advert for the communities of Thame and its neighbouring villages.”

The public has until March 5, to support the teams with their online fundraising. The links to the My Donate page can be found via www.thame.rotary1090.org

More photos taken at Thame Swimathon can be found on www.facebook.com/thamerotary