Swimathon 2009

Once again, we held a Swimathon in the magnificent Freeman's Quay swimming pool, in association with the County Council and the City Mayor's Office.

The charities to be supported by this year's event are The Teenage Cancer Trust at the RVI, Newcastle, Down's Syndrome North East, and the Mayor's Charities (LIVErNORTH and The Alzheimer's Society) as well, of course, as the teams' nominated charities.

On July 20th, the Mayor of Durham, Councillor Dennis Southwell joined President David and other members of the Club and Freeman's Quay staff to launch the publicity campaign for the Swimathon.

Meanwhile, Neil Jones and David Yates were ready at the Registration desk to receive the teams.

Eddy's Angels - with mascot Neve (Eddy Marchant's granddaughter).

Eileen Charlton, in the Rotary Club of Durham Elvet team, makes it look very easy.

As did Wendy Byatt, President of the Durham Elvet Club.

And Wendy received a "spot prize" (one of a number donated by Freeman's Quay) from the Mayor for a stirling effort,

And a spot prize went to a member of the teams from Down's Syndrome North East.

A member of the team from the Durham Johnston School gets ready ....

... to power down her lane.

Another spot prize went to a member of the Mencap team.

The Army Cadets fielded three great teams.

After it was all over, and the water was still - time for reflection ...

... in a great venue.

Over the two days, a total of 41 teams swam over 5,000 lengths of the 25m pool and we raised just over