Market Harborough SwiMarathon Raises Over £10,000

Organisers of the Market Harborough Rotary SwiMarathon are thanking everyone who took part in the big fundraising event over the weekend.

31 teams of almost 130 swimmers completed more than 3,000 lengths of Harborough Leisure Centre’s pool – covering over 80km.

Some of the organising team from The Rotary Club of Market Harborough

The SwiMarathon at Harborough Leisure Centre

One team from Market Harborough Triathlon Club set a new record, completing 181 lengths in a 50-minute relay, while the Market Harborough C of E Academy fielded six teams, filling all lanes for one session on Sunday.

The 14th running of the two-day HFM-backed event has already raised over £10,000 for charity, supported by 21 local businesses who contributed donations and sponsorship, ensuring all swimmer sponsorship money goes back to local good causes and Rotary charities.

Leisure Centre operator Everyone Active is also being thanked for its support in hosting the fundraiser.

Over the past 14 years, the SwiMarathon has donated more than £100,000.

HFM’s Grant Lush and Chris Jones hosting the event on Saturday

HFM’s Paul Hartshorn, Colin J, Graham Beeby and Moley hosting the event on Sunday

Rotarian Carole Baldam, chair of the organising group, said: “We are delighted to have raised so much money this year from the sponsorship. It will benefit local causes and some will go to Rotary charities. It is lovely to see so many people of all ages swimming together and having so much fun. It was especially pleasing to have so many spectators at the event this year, supporting the swimmers.”

Each team swam in 50-minute relay sessions, with lengths counted and displayed for swimmers and spectators.

HFM provided live commentary and music, adding to the fun atmosphere and swimmers received a certificate with their team photo, along with a purpose-made morsbag made from recycled fabric.