Goggles at the ready! Over 200 people are set to take part in The Big Dip
BY YASMIN VINCE, IMAGE BY PRIDE SWIM
Pride Swim is partnering with Speedo for The Big Dip, the first of its charity swims. On 26 October, Brighton Beach will be filled with members of the LGBTQIA and ally community, ready to take the plunge.
Over 200 people, decked out in orange Speedo swimming caps, are expected to take part. The money raised will go to Switchboard Helpline, the national LGBTQIA helpline which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
Pride Swim: The Big Dip has been designed to connect the community and people are encouraged to join whatever their swimming ability. LGBTQIA activist and former pro-swimmer Michael Gunning said: “By coming together, we can share and celebrate the positive benefits the water can bring and create a safe space for everyone to thrive, whether they are new or seasoned swimmers.”
Over the past year, 20 Pride Swims have taken place across the UK with the support of organisations such as Love Open Water, Everyone Active and Soho House. Polly Shute, Pride Swim’s founder, said the response to previous Pride Swims has been “fantastic”. She added: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone on the day and hope that we’ll be able to mark the occasion with a Big Dip each year.”
The public can still sign up for The Big Dip. Tickets are £10 and 100% of the fee will go to Switchboard Helpline. More information can be found at OutSavvy.
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