A WEST Cumbrian swimming club has marked 40 years with an amazing fundraising challenge.
Copeland Amateur Swimming Club punched well above its weight in the challenge, swimming 10,334 lengths - equivalent to 162 miles - and surpassing its original 140-mile goal, which represents the swimmable length of the River Thames.
Fifty members took part in the swim, and are expected to raise over £1,000 for club funds.
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.”
Formed in 1986 through the amalgamation of the Whitehaven Borough Club and Egremont ASC, the club is based at Copeland Pool on Cleator Moor Road in Whitehaven.
The fundraising event drew support from current swimmers, coaches, and former members, ranging in age from eight to 50.
Ian Richardson, president of Cumbria Amateur Swimming Association, also attended the event.
He said: "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.
"It’s great to see the club thriving and we look forward to the next 40 years."
Copeland ASC has produced swimmers who have competed at county, regional and national levels.
Phil Hawkrigg, who has been with the club since it began, first as a swimmer and later as a coach for 30 years, described the club as something special.
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."
The club also received praise from Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington.
Mr MacAlister 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.
"Clubs like Copeland ASC don’t just produce talented swimmers, they build confidence, friendships, discipline and community spirit."
The club thanked Copeland Pool and Fitness Centre for hosting the event.
Copeland ASC is always on the look out for new members in all ages groups; from Learn to Swim members (aged four and over), Squad Swimmers and Masters. For more information, email copelandascmembers@gmail.com or visit the club’s Facebook page.
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