Swimmers across Swindon and the surrounding area are being invited to dive in and raise money for charity as the annual Rotary Swimathon returns this spring.
Organised by The Rotary Club of Swindon North and Thamesdown, the fundraising event will take place on Sunday 17 May at Highworth Recreation Centre.
Open to participants of all ages and abilities, the event offers individuals and teams the chance to swim sponsored lengths in support of a charity or organisation of their choice.
Unlike many fundraising events, entrants are not restricted to supporting a single cause. Instead, swimmers can raise funds for whichever charity matters most to them, while also contributing to the Rotary Club’s chosen partner for the year.
For 2026, the official charity partner is Phoenix Enterprises, which supports adults with disabilities through employment and training opportunities.
Organisers say the event is designed to make fundraising simple and accessible, with entry forms, sponsorship guidance and online donation tools all available through the Rotary Club’s website.
There is no entry fee, and sponsorship can be collected either online or through traditional forms.
The Swimathon has become a regular fixture in the local fundraising calendar. Last year’s event raised £6,850, with proceeds supporting Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool as the charity partner.
Members of the Rotary Club say they hope to exceed that total when swimmers return to the pool this May.
Participants are encouraged to begin forming teams and seeking sponsorship from friends, family and colleagues in the weeks leading up to the event.
Further details, including entry forms and sponsorship information, can be found on the Rotary Club’s website.
