I loved this event. I hadn't been swimming for very long, so this event was perfect for me to be able to improve my swimming experience and fitness all whilst raising money for a great charity. It led me to take part in more swimming events, including open water swimming. Looking forward to taking part in this event again. 

I love Swimathon, 600 pools all over the country, over all the weekend, you can pick your distance, from 400m up to 5km along side raising money for Marie Curie Cancer.  This was my second year competing in the event. The registration process is always simple, you get to pick your local pool and the session you wish to complete your distance.  The website is full of good information including training plans which I followed this year.  Regular emails keep you informed and explaining how things are going.  Earlier social media reports this week stated charity funding had raised over £1million pounds. 

Each event that I have done has always been a small event. This year there was only 7 people competing, all of us doing the 5km.  The staff at the pool were really friendly and were able to get us registered and organised really well. There was a lack of a briefing which may of helped with pool etiquete, which may have stopped me getting a whack on the head. 

The pool was very unique and it felt good swimming in a different place. Once we were underway the team counting our laps were very helpful and kept the encouragment coming.  At the end it was great to collect the medal. 

I think Swimathon is a brilliant event and it would be great if it was more supported therefore creating more fundraising oppertunities to support cancer.  Get involved in 2019!

When you first sign up you will receive some pre race advise. You will receive a plan that you can choose to follow that will allow you to train for your chosen distance. I do recommend you follow the plan so you are ready for your swim. 
I remember the start of the swim jumping into the pool along with everyone else, I can remember thinking oh my what have I signed myself up for? That feeling goes very quickly and you soon get into the rhythm. My strong advise is to ensure you select the right speed lane. I think I misjudged myself and put myself too slow. Maybe have a practice and see how you feel when swimming. That was the only down side at the beginning. After those who had completed their swim I had a lot more room as I choose the 5K swim. 
You get such a strong sense of achievement afterwards and I raised far more than I expected. People got really behind me. At the time I was going through some mental health issues including losing my Nan. It really helped me through these difficult times. 
I recommend you give it a try you'll have lots of fun!