The Rose Road Association Charity Swim event is set to make a splash at the Southampton International Boat Show on Saturday, 21 September.

Registration for this unique sea swim is officially open, inviting swimmers of all levels to dive into the iconic Southampton docks for a fantastic cause that enhances the lives of hundreds of families and disabled young people.

Participants will have the rare opportunity to swim a 1km course past breathtaking tall ships and super yachts, in an area usually closed to swimmers. This bucket-list event caters to both beginners and experienced swimmers, with a focus on fun and personal achievement rather than competition.

Chloe Atkins, Head of Fundraising, Rose Road Association, says:

“We’re overjoyed to bring the Rose Road Association Charity Swim back to the Southampton International Boat Show. This unique event not only offers a once-in-a-lifetime swimming experience but also raises crucial funds for Rose Road to help continue to provide exciting new experiences and opportunities for disabled children and young people, and their families, to thrive. The young people we support love being the water for the positive therapeutic physical and mental benefits it provides. We’re deeply thankful for each and every participant who chooses to share this love of the water and make a splash for Rose Road.”

Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience. Register before 31 May to secure the Early Bird rate.

  • Location: Southampton International Boat Show – Harbour Parade, SO15 1ST
  • Date: Saturday 21 September 2024
  • Time: 8am arrival; first swim wave at 9am
  • Registration: Early Bird rate of £30 until 31 May (£40 thereafter), saving 25%

All swimmers will receive free entry to the boat show post-swim, with spectators enjoying discounted entry at £19.99. Swimmers will also receive a commemorative swimming hat.

There will also be free expert advice on hand on the day and in the lead up to the event from Scott Dawson, famous for swimming around the Isle of Wight alongside other experienced sea swimmers, providing top tips on swimming in open water.

Register to take part today by visiting: www.roseroad.org.uk/swim

Mark Ring, Head of Events at British Marine, organisers of the Southampton International Boat Show, commented:

“We are delighted to host the Rose Road Association Charity Swim once again at this year’s boat show. It’s a fantastic addition to our lineup, combining the thrill of open water swimming with the spirit of community and charity. We can’t wait to see the docks come alive with swimmers for such an outstanding cause.”

For the third consecutive year, Mere Plantations (Mere) are proud to continue their support of The Rose Road Association Boat Show Swim.  Ashley Hogg, International Open Water Swimmer and Mere Plantations representative said:

“The Rose Road Association is a wonderful local charity to Southampton and the International Boat Show provides an opportunity to support the invaluable services that Rose Road brings to disabled people and their families. The Boat Show Swim gives a unique opportunity to swim safely amongst some of most stunning boats in the world. It is an inclusive event, supporting needs close to home.”

Raising money for the Rose Road Association

The Rose Road Charity Swim is more than just an event; it’s a chance to make a real difference in the lives of disabled children and young people. Participants are encouraged to add an optional donation upon registering and to fundraise, aiming to help the event raise £5,000. Each donation, big or small, helps Rose Road provide essential services and support to those in need.

£5 could buy food ingredients and help a young person learn to cook their favourite meal.
£15 could take a young person to the zoo for a day.
£25 could provide an hour’s emergency outreach support.
£75 could provide almost 4 hours of extended respite for a family in need of additional help.

£125 could fund a day of use of our hydrotherapy pool for two young people

So why not dive into the challenge, enjoy a day of aquatic adventure, and support the vital work of the Rose Road Association at the Southampton International Boat Show.

The Rose Road Association provides essential respite and community care services and support for disabled children, young people, and their families, helping them to achieve their aspirations and feel a sense of belonging within a supportive, inclusive community. Every contribution towards the Rose Road Charity Swim event helps to ensure a thriving future for those who rely on their support.

Get your ticket

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/

You can also make a donation to this year’s show charity when purchasing your tickets.  This year we are delighted to be working with the Southampton Hospitals Charity and their Light the South art trail to raise funds for Southampton Children’s Hospital, one of the top children’s hospitals in the UK. Your donation will help transform the facilities and hospital experience for young patients, deliver vital support for families and continue life-changing research to keep your children’s hospital truly world class.

Want to make your visit extra special?  Treat yourself with the Quayside Club package – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except on the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.  The Shipyard will remain open until 9pm on both Saturday 14 and Saturday 21 September.