Great Swim

Outdoor swimming events in the UK

Swim Stories - to inspire!

Great Swim began in 2008 with the Great North Swim and expanded to the four-event British Gas Great Swim series in 2009.

The inaugural Great North Swim proved a big attraction as it was one of the first mass participation open water events of its kind.

Here, swimmers who took part in the initial event tell their stories of why they decided to take on the challenge, how they prepared for the big day and what it was like to take to the water in Lake Windermere.

The majority of Great Swim participants are just ordinary people and their stories are truly inspiring.

What’s more, their accounts also reveal many top tips and offer lots of great advice, especially if you are thinking of taking on the Great Swim challenge yourself.

Swim Stories from 2008

Dr Hilary Jones - GMTV Dr. Hilary Jones
GMTV
More info

Vivienne Forster - Carlisle Vivienne Forster
Carlisle
More info

Christine Frazer - Gateshead Christine Frazer
Gateshead
More info

Terri Sambrook - Northumberland Terri Sambrook
Northumberland
More info

Nigel Holmes - Durham Nigel Holmes
Durham
More info

Sarah Mason - Carnforth, Lancs. Sarah Mason
Carnforth, Lancs.
More info

- Stories from 2009

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Great Swim Shop in collaboration with blueseventyWe have everything you need to get the most out of your swimming right here in the Great Swim Shop.

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