Registration opens for landmark 50th Skipton Swimarathon as Salty Swimarathon launches

Registration is now open for the 2026 Skipton Swimarathon in Guernsey, with islanders invited to sign up for the event’s landmark 50th year.

Taking place from 7 to 11 October 2026, this year’s Skipton Swimarathon will once again bring together individuals, families, school groups, sports clubs and businesses in support of an important local cause, with Les Bourgs Hospice named as the main beneficiary.

Organised by a dedicated team including the Guernsey Round Table and the Lions Club of Guernsey, and proudly sponsored by Skipton International, the Skipton Swimarathon is a much-loved part of Guernsey’s annual calendar and one of the island’s best-known community fundraising events.

Last year, more than 1,700 swimmers took part and raised £68,500 for local causes. Organisers are now encouraging the community to get involved once again and help make this milestone year another strong one for local fundraising.

New for 2026 is the Salty Swimarathon, giving islanders another way to take part at the La Vallette bathing pools alongside the traditional event at Beau Sejour. The new addition is designed to broaden participation and bring a fresh dimension to this year’s programme.

Skipton International has supported the event since 2010, reflecting its long-standing commitment to backing local initiatives that bring people together and make a practical difference across the island.

Pete Turner, Chief Operating Officer at Skipton International, said:

“We are proud to continue supporting the Skipton Swimarathon as it returns for its 50th year. It is an event that means a great deal to the Guernsey community and reflects the best of the island, with community spirit, teamwork and a shared commitment to helping local causes. The introduction of the Salty Swimarathon gives people another way to get involved, and we hope to see strong support this year for Les Bourgs Hospice.”

John Stuart, Chair of the Skipton Swimarathon Organising Committee, said:

“The Skipton Swimarathon has always been about bringing the community together, and it is fantastic to open registrations for such a special year. Reaching our 50th year is a real milestone, and we are looking forward to welcoming back familiar faces as well as first-time participants. With the introduction of the Salty Swimarathon alongside the main event, we are giving even more people the chance to take part and help raise vital funds for Les Bourgs Hospice.”

Rob Jones, Chief Executive Officer at Les Bourgs Hospice, said:

“We are very grateful to be the main beneficiary of the 2026 Skipton Swimarathon in our 35th anniversary year. Support from the event will help us continue providing compassionate, specialist care and support for patients and families across Guernsey. We are thankful to the Organising Committee, Skipton International, every swimmer, donor and supporter who helps make this possible.”

Entries are now open at www.swimarathon.org, where participants can find more information on registration, fundraising and how to get involved.