Kirsten Duberly, Puddle Ducks teacher at the pool at Highdown School, is putting her swimming skills to the ultimate test by taking part in the Bantham Swoosh in July 2022.
The Bantham Swoosh is a 6km open water swim held in the Devon estuary each year with participants choosing to raise money for a personal charity as part of the challenge. Swimmers enjoy a clear view of the sandy estuary bed throughout their swim, making this open water swim special.
Kirsten has chosen to raise money for Level Water who provide swimming lessons for children with disabilities. She said: “Being a swimming teacher myself Level Water is a charity that is really close to my heart. The way they make swimming accessible to all is truly inspiring.
“Starting with 1-1 swimming lessons, they provide opportunities for children with disabilities to learn to swim. From physical development to social and emotional confidence, swimming is a vehicle to change their lives for the better. And they believe everyone should have the opportunity to learn to swim and fall in love with the water. This is a value we mirror at Puddle Ducks, so I am delighted to be supporting them through my sponsored swim.”
The swim is open to anyone who is comfortable in the water and is the perfect introduction to open water swimming. It is also very safe with a number of lifeguards along the route.
Nicknamed, ‘The Swoosh’ due to the course culminating in a “swoosh” as the ebbing tide is funnelled through a narrow section of river, the movement of the water speeds the swimmers along over the riverbed at up to four times their usual swimming speed. It can run at eight knots, making the swim exciting, invigorating, beautiful and fun.
Jo Gribben, owner at Puddle Ducks North Hampshire and Reading added: “We are really proud of Kirsten for entering this event. We know she will do really well and all of her Puddle Ducks colleagues will be cheering her on. Level Water is a wonderful charity and we hope she raises lots of money to bring the joy of swimming to children who otherwise may not have the opportunity to learn to swim.”
Kirsten has pledged to raise £200 but would really like to smash that total. She is currently training for the swim and is looking forward to the event later in the summer. If you would like to donate to this fantastic cause click here.