London Marathon Launches Swim Serpentine
London Marathon Events Ltd, organisers of the Virgin Money London Marathon, has created a new open water swimming event entitled Swim Serpentine.
The two-day open water swimming festival will be staged in London over the weekend of 24th – 25th September 2016 around Serpentine in Hyde Park, the venue for the open water swimming competition at the London 2012 Olympic Games.
On the first day of Swim Serpentine up to 6,000 swimmers will swim one mile in open water, whilst the second day of the festival will feature the British Open Water Swimming Championships over 3.2km distance with a programme that will include an invitation 5km swim.
The public ballot entry system for Swim Serpentine is now open and will close on 13th May, or when 16,000 applications have been received.
“Swim Serpentine offers a unique opportunity to swim one mile in open water in a major event in the Serpentine,” said Hugh Brasher, event director for London Marathon Events Ltd. “We all remember the stunning images from the open water competition in the Serpentine at the London 2012 Olympic Games and this is the chance for everyone to swim in this great venue.”
David Sparkes, chief executive of British Swimming, said: “We are excited to be involved with London Marathon on this event to be staged in the iconic Serpentine which will bring back memories for us all of the excitement of London 2012. Now anyone interested in swimming in this world famous open water venue has the opportunity to experience some of the London 2012 magic. We hope everyone now will sign up and get ready to swim.”
London Marathon Events Ltd organises the Virgin Money London Marathon, Prudential Ride London festival of cycling, the Vitality Westminster Mile and other mass participation running events.
Image: ©Getty Images
