Copeland swimmers have celebrated the 40th anniversary of their club by conquering a gruelling fundraising challenge.
Fifty members of Copeland Amateur Swimming Club completed 10,334 lengths in two hours, swimming a total of 162 miles.
They had set themselves a target of 140 miles; the equivalent of the swimmable section of the River Thames.
Members earned sponsorship for the challenge, and are expected to raise over £1,000 which will go towards club funds.
Participants ranged in age from eight to 50, and included current swimmers, coaches and past members who returned to show their support.
Andy Sutton, chair of Copeland ASC, said: “It’s a privilege to be chair of this incredible club, and it’s great to celebrate our anniversary by our members coming together in this tremendous fundraising effort.
“I’m so proud of everyone, and I’d like to thank all our swimmers for their tremendous efforts in the pool. I’d also like to pay tribute to our dedicated coaches and committee – all of whom are volunteers, and who all contribute so much to the continued success of our club.”
The Copeland club was formed in 1986 when the former Whitehaven Borough Club and Egremont ASC amalgamated to operate from the newly opened Copeland Pool, on Cleator Moor Road in Whitehaven.
Ian Richardson, president of Cumbria Amateur Swimming Association, attended Copeland’s fundraising event last Thursday evening.
“I was in the pool on the opening day back in 1986 and it’s amazing to be here to celebrate the 40th anniversary with Copeland’s swimmers of all ages to see them smash their target,” said Ian, who runs the popular Cumbria Swimming History Facebook page.
“It’s great to see the club thriving and we look forward to the next 40 years!”
Over its four decades, the club has produced a number of county, regional and national swimmers, with some having gone on to compete at the highest levels.
Phil Hawkrigg has been with the club since day one, initially as a swimmer and, for the last 30 years, as coach.
He said: “It’s a great club to be part of; as well as the fitness and competitiveness that being part of our club offers, it’s about friendship and having fun at the same time.”
Josh McAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington who visited the club last year, said: “Copeland Amateur Swimming Club is a brilliant example of the kind of volunteer-led community organisation that makes West Cumbria so special.
“To mark 40 years by smashing their fundraising target in such style is a huge achievement. Swimming 10,334 lengths in just two hours is remarkable, and everyone involved – from the youngest swimmers to the coaches, committee, parents and past members – should be incredibly proud.
“Clubs like Copeland ASC don’t just produce talented swimmers, they build confidence, friendships, discipline and community spirit.
“My congratulations to everyone who has been part of the club’s story over the last four decades. Here’s to the next 40 years!”
The club also extended thanks to its hosts, Copeland Pool and Fitness Centre.
