The challenge – how we got here

It’s the kids’ fault. Several months ago, on a visit to our local pool, Finlay and Isla spotted a Swimathon poster.  They were immediately inspired by the idea they could do something they love – albeit further than they’d ever done before – and raise money for charity at the same time.  Once double breakfasts and an eat-what-you-like policy were introduced on practice days there was no turning back.       

So, on Sunday 28 April, at 3pm, Finlay, Isla, Susie and Nick will take part in Swimathon 2024 and swim 5KM in a relay-style format at Tooting Leisure Centre.  We have 3 hours to complete the distance.  

Our motivation - why we’re doing it

1 in 2 of us will get cancer, but all of us are touched by the impact of cancer and, importantly, we can all support the research that can beat it and the care needed by people who live with it. We’re particularly motivated to do this swim as Nick’s sister, Fi Roy, died from breast cancer in 2020 aged 48. Fi was a wonderful wife, mum, sister, aunt, and friend.  Yet, this page is not only in memory of Fi, we’ve also witnessed other, close family and friends die from cancer. We’re swimming in memory of all of them.

Who’s doing what on the day

Training started in November and, thankfully for Susie and Nick, the children are swimming most of the way to get the team over the line within time.  We’re targeting a time of 2H 45M so there’s not much time for floundering about in the water!

Here’s how we’re splitting the distance, in relay swim order (total of 152 lengths, pool length is 33m): 

• Nick (dad) – 1,254m (38 lengths)
• Susie (mum) – 1,056m (32 lengths), more used to running than swimming having never swam more than 400m
• Isla, aged 8 – 1,056m (32 lengths) 
• Finlay, aged 10 – 1,650m (50 lengths)

The charities

Cancer Research UK is the largest charitable funder of cancer research in the world and aims to stay at the forefront of the global fight against cancer. Marie Curie nurses support people with any terminal illness, and those close to them, across the UK – from diagnosis to bereavement.

Our fundraising target – please donate 

We are aiming high and want to raise £2,500. That’s 50p for every metre we swim.  Every metre sponsored enables Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie to continue their great work. 

Feel free to dedicate your donation to someone you know who’s been affected by, or has died from, cancer. These messages will inspire us to keep going on the day.

Thank you and love from us all xx