South London Press, Friday, February 13, 2015
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The participants of the first Cold Water Swimming Gala k6363/C
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PICTURES: TIM SUTTON
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‘DON’T STOP’: Clive Broadbent get in this water and actually have BRRR-AVE swimmers from BY HAYLEY quite a good time,” he said. South London made an icy “The camaraderie between swimRICHARDSON splash at Brockwell Lido’s mers in winter is fantastic. It’s literfirst Cold Water Swimming the water temperature peaking at a ally an ice-breaker, as you can talk about how cold it is.” Gala at the weekend. meagre 3.7C. About 80 swimmers from across London, including teams from neighbouring clubs in Brixton, Tooting and Herne Hill, competed in nine individual and relay races, split across three age groups including an over-60s category. Wet suits were forbidden, despite
Organiser Tim Sutton, of Josephine Avenue, Brixton, said the sport of cold water swimming is increasing in popularity and he is hoping the event will become a regular fixture. “An event like this at the lido demonstrates to people that they can
Regular Brockwell swimmer Clive Broadbent swam a ceremonial opening length donning his “famous” Dalek hat. Mr Broadbent is swimming the English Channel in July as part of a team of parents and staff from Rosemead Preparatory School in Dulwich to raise
HOT AND COLD: Swimmers in water and hot tubs. Below right, a cake
funds for the school and annual sports scholarships. The final race – the Pot Luck Plunge – saw teams of swimmers battle it out over 20 widths to win £100 of Intersport vouchers, donated by the Herne Hill branch. The races were followed by a medal ceremony and a cake competition, providing much-needed sustenance for the shivering competitors. Swimmers also enjoyed a post-race dip in hot tubs provided by Fusion Lifestyle.
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