26 July 2010

Swimmers go the extra mile for Mencap

Over 130 people swam the Mencap Mile at an official London 2012 Olympic venue

Over 130 people swam the Mencap Mile on 25 July at Dorney Lake, Windsor Castle – one of the venues for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The event gave swimmers of all ages an exclusive chance to swim at a London 2012 venue and raise money for Mencap.

Lucy Chenery, 15, who has a learning disability, completed the swim in 26 minutes and 30 seconds and was the third-fastest woman overall. Tom Hempenstall, 19, who also has a learning disability, finished in 25 minutes and 41 seconds and came sixth overall.

Winner Matt Mcquillan finished in 22 minutes and 30 seconds, while Katie Kenny was the fastest woman, completing the race in 24 minutes.

TV presenter Johnny Ball attended the event to help cheer on the swimmers, and spectators were entertained by welly-throwing competitions and giant board games.

Hazel McIlwraith, Mencap's assistant director of fundraising, said: "It's been a fantastic day and an experience to remember for all our swimmers – who were supported by so many of their family and friends."

Find out more about the Mencap Mile and see photos from the event

Watch a video of the Mencap Mile

Find a Mencap event in your area