Record-Breaking Castle 2 Castle Swim Raises £73,000 for RNLI

Photo Credit: Stacie Nicoll-Antreth Photography

467 Swimmers Take on Challenging Conditions in Biggest Event Yet

The annual Castle 2 Castle swim, a prominent fundraising event for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), saw its largest turnout to date on Sunday, 30th June. A remarkable 467 swimmers braved the challenging conditions to participate in the event, raising an impressive £73,000 with more donations still coming in.

Top Finishers Shine in Gruelling Race

Felix Hinton-Smith led the pack, finishing first with a time of 24 minutes and 15 seconds. Hot on his heels was the first under-18 entrant, Peter Kettleborough, clocking in at 26 minutes and 29 seconds. Tomas Rich secured third place with a time of 26 minutes and 32 seconds. The first female swimmer to cross the finish line was Maisey Hawkins, completing the race in 26 minutes and 33 seconds. The full results can be found at: RNLI Castle to Castle Swim 2024 (racetimingsolutions.co.uk)

Support and Safety: A Collaborative Effort

Dave Nicol, Fundraising & Partnership Lead for the South West Region, hailed this year’s event as the most successful in its history. He attributed the event’s success to the collective effort of over 100 volunteers who provided crucial support both on the water and ashore.

“This is the most successful Castle 2 Castle swim so far with 467 swimmers taking part in what was described as challenging conditions. In completing the challenge, the swimmers have also raised an amazing £73k for the RNLI which will help support our lifesaving work around the coast,” Nicol stated.

Nicol expressed gratitude to the volunteer Lifeboat Crew, RNLI Lifeguards, and volunteers from Surf Lifesaving Clubs, Falmouth Harbour, Fal River Ferries, various sailing clubs, and other vessels for ensuring the event’s safety. He also thanked Falmouth Town Council, English Heritage, TJR Scaffolding, Alliance Tool Hire South West, and Blackwater Studios for their support.

Photo Credit: Stacie Nicoll-Antreth Photography

Looking Ahead

With this year’s event setting a new benchmark, the RNLI is optimistic about the future of the Castle 2 Castle swim. The overwhelming participation and substantial funds raised underscore the community’s dedication to supporting the RNLI’s vital work around the coast.

For a detailed list of results, visit the official race timing solutions website at RNLI Castle to Castle Swim 2024.