One-month countdown begins as spaces fill for milestone Skipton Swimarathon

Spaces are filling quickly for the 50th Skipton Swimarathon, with just one month to go until the five-day community fundraising event begins.

This year’s Skipton Swimarathon takes place from Wednesday 7 to Sunday 11 October and will raise funds for Les Bourgs Hospice and other local causes.

Swimmers of all ages and abilities can enter as individuals, families, school groups, sports clubs, or corporate teams.

This year also sees the introduction of the Salty Swim, giving participants the option of taking part at La Vallette Ladies’ Pool on Friday 9 or Saturday 10 October. The sea swim will run alongside the traditional event at Beau Sejour and At Large swims held at local schools.

The 2026 event marks two significant anniversaries. The Skipton Swimarathon is celebrating its 50th year, while its main beneficiary, Les Bourgs Hospice, is marking 35 years of providing care and support to islanders and their families.

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

“With one month to go and spaces filling, now is the time to choose a session and secure your place, whether you are entering individually or as part of a team.

“To mark the 50th Skipton Swimarathon, we have partnered with La Vallette Bathing Pools to introduce the Salty Swim, giving people a new way to take part. We hope islanders will join us at Beau Sejour or La Vallette and help make this year’s event one to remember.”

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

“The Skipton Swimarathon is a wonderful example of Guernsey coming together to support its community, and we are proud to be its main beneficiary during our 35th anniversary year.

“Every team that enters, every length completed, and every donation made will help us continue providing specialist care to patients and vital support to their families. As an entirely fundraising-reliant charity, the community’s support makes our work possible.”

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

“Skipton International has supported the Swimarathon for more than 15 years because it makes a real difference to local charities and the people who rely on them. Few events unite Guernsey quite like it, with islanders of all ages coming together to raise funds for causes that matter to our community.

“We are proud to continue that commitment in the event’s 50th year and to support Les Bourgs Hospice as it celebrates 35 years of caring for islanders and their families.”

Last year, more than £67,000 was raised, with over 1,700 swimmers, volunteers, and supporters taking part.

To register for the traditional swim or find out more about the Salty Swim, visit www.swimarathon.org.