More than 300 swimmers took part in this years Open Castle Swim. Maintenance on the Castle Cornet slipway meant the route needed to be changed this year. Swimmers started from the Slaughterhouse Slipway and finished at the Horseshoe pool at La Vallette.
The CEO of Louvre Group Derek Baudains was busy presenting medals at the finish and volunteers helped hand out hot chocolate to the swimmers.
Robyn Munro, 19, did the swim for the fourth time and said she most enjoyed the hot chocolate at the end. ‘It’s really good, it wasn’t actually that cold at all, and the medal’s are always a nice touch.’
Organising committee member Kevin Penney said the day had gone well, with perfect conditions. There’s always lots of interest. It’s just a great swim, a good challenge and helping great charities.’
This year the Guernsey RNLI and Guernsey Alzheimer’s Association will benefit from the proceeds.
The Bill Green Memorial Trophy has been presented to the oldest swimmer to complete the course and this year went to 80 year old Eileen Samman, who said it was her first time doing the swim. ‘I think it’s the first time I’ve swum so far in my life. I don’t know quite why I did it.’ Also swimming was her proud granddaughter, Molly Robinson, 12. It was her first time doing the swim too. Mrs Samman said she was grateful to two swimmers, Callum Penney, 21, and Aimee Bran, 18, both members of the club who swam alongside her.
Pictured below is Eileen with CEO of Louvre Group, Derek Baudains and Guernsey Swimming Club Director Jo Norman.
