Swimmers in synch with Big Splash initiative
11 May 2011
Great Britain’s top synchronised swimmers have taken time out of their punishing European Champions Cup preparation to help promote the importance of swimming.
Commonwealth silver medallists Jenna Randall and Olivia Allison are in synch with British Swimming and the BBC as they launch a new initiative to get the UK to make a big splash.
The campaign – the Big Splash, presented by British Gas - was officially launched yesterday at the Houses of Parliament by five-time Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe and Minister for Sport and the Olympics Hugh Robertson.
And the British synchronised swimmers, currently training eight hours a day ahead of taking on the toast of Europe in Sheffield later this month, insist they were happy to throw their full support behind the initiative.
“Swimming is such an important life skill so we’re fully in support of the Big Splash,” said Randall.
“Obviously we’re in the water every day, but you don’t need to be a professional athlete to feel the benefits of swimming.
“Even one hour a week in the pool will have a positive impact on your physical and mental health.
“I couldn’t believe it when I read one in five children leave primary school not able to swim.
“I remember having so much fun in the pool with my friends when I was at school and I can’t imagine not being able to swim in the sea when I go to the beach."
Click here to find out how you can get involved and make a big splash.
