The Griffith Sport MS Swimathon is taking the challenge in the pool to new heights this year with plans to set a new world record.
Griffith University student and Olympic gold medalist Madi Wilson will be taking part in the Griffith Sport MS Swimathon being held at Griffith’s Aquatic and Fitness Centre on the Mt Gravatt campus on October 16.
The 12-hour event is held annually in support of Queenslanders living with multiple sclerosis and last year raised $20,000.
This year, there will be added pressure in the final hour of the MS Swimathon with an attempt at a Guinness World Record for the Most People to Swim a Lap of a 25 Metre Pool in One Hour.
“We’re pretty confident we can achieve this record, but we need some fast swimmers to help us get there,” said Griffith Sport Event Coordinator Holly Ruhle.
“It’s a case of all hands on deck, especially participants who can swim 25 metres in under 15 seconds.
“To break the record we have to have 225 swimmers participating in the relay.”
Madi Wilson, who has been appointed MS Queensland ambassador, is taking part in the world record attempt.
“We’re excited that Madi will be inviting some of her high-profile training partners to join the fun, and we want to see as many people as possible taking part,” said Ms Ruhle.
“However, for those who may not be quick off the blocks, we still want you. We don’t care if you are a doggy paddler or if a casual breast stroke is more your style, it’s all about participating for a worthy cause.
“We’ll have 12 hours in the pool and we just want to raise as much money as we can for MS Queensland.”
The Swimathon is being held at Mount Gravatt Aquatic and Fitness Centre, on Griffith University’s Mt Gravatt Campus, on Sunday, October 16 from 7am to 7pm.
The world record attempt will be taking place in the final hour from 6pm to 7pm. Entry for the world record attempt is free.