Make a splash in first open-water swim
AN open water swimming event is due to be trialled at Carsington Water next month for the first time.
The pilot session will be run by operator Pacesetter Events and could lead to further events.
Donna Marshall, visitor engagement manager at Severn Trent, which owns the reservoir, said: “We know that outdoor swimming has grown in popularity over the years and this is something we’ve wanted to introduce for a while, so we’re really pleased to be able to offer this pilot session at Carsington.
“Pacesetter Events are a brilliant company with loads of experience of operating open water swimming events at other similar locations like Rutland Water, so they’re well aware of the potential risks involved in swimming in reservoirs and how to mitigate them.”
Reservoirs contain a number of dangers that could result in even experienced swimmers getting into difficulty. Even on a hot day, the temperature of the water can be extremely cold. Reservoirs also often have hidden dangers beneath the surface and unseen currents due to them being operational bodies of water and can have soft, muddy banks.
Ms Marshall added: “We have always said that people should not enter the water at any of our reservoirs unless taking part in a supervised and structured activity and this absolutely remains the case.
“Reservoirs can be really dangerous places so it’s important that people only ever enter the water to take part in a managed, organised event. There will be lots of measures in place to ensure that the swim event will be as safe as possible.”
To make sure everyone enjoys the session safely, swimmers will be required to use swim floats and wear swimming hats for every session, along with wetsuits if the temperature is below 16 degrees.
There will be trained teams and safety boats on hand to provide support.
Each session costs £32, with all money going towards the operation of future sessions. The event will run from 6.30pm-8.30pm on Thursday, July 11.