SwiMarathon 2026 grants giveaway and prize giving event

ROTARY SWIMARATHON 2026 – the great giveaway event

The Rotary Club of Market Harborough has given grants to 19 local organisations. The money given away was raised at the Rotary SwiMarathon, held in March 2026. The sum of £10,000 was raised through sponsorship of swimmers and support by local businesses.

Grants were given to 19 local organisations.

Prizes were awarded for special performances

Best Team Name went to VASL (Voluntary Action South Leicestershire) with team name VASLines. They also raised the most money in sponsorship. There was a Star Junior Swimmer, Star Adult Swimmer and award for the team who Swam Most lengths.

The Rotary Club would like to thank the local business sponsors whose support covers the expenses of running the event, thus allowing all the money raised by the swimmers to be distributed to local organisations and Rotary charities.

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The annual Swimarathon event took place on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th March 2026. Over the two days, 33 teams took part involving about 130 swimmers. Harborough FM provided the music and commentary which kept the teams motivated during their 50 minute swim. The Rotary Club is extremely grateful to the Harborough Leisure Centre for their support without which the event could not be held.

Rotarian Carole Baldam, chair of the group of Rotarians organising the SwiMarathon, said “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.”

This was the 14th running of the event and over the years more than £100,000 has been given away, by the Rotary Club, to local good causes and Rotary charities. Earlier this year the club was awarded the 2025 Community Award of the Harborough District “Let’s get moving. Physical Activity” Awards for their efforts in running the annual SwiMarathon.

This award is for an individual, group or club that has developed or led a sport or physical activity project or had a positive influence to inspire others to become more active in their community.