Students tackle the 8:5:3 challenge to buy new equipment for Richmond Dales Swimming Club

Congratulations to all the students who are part of Richmond Dales Swimming Club who, along with other club members, have raised over £6,300.  The students completed the 8:5:3 challenge to raise money to fund new lane ropes at Richmond Swimming Pool and new diving block tops at Catterick Leisure Centre.  8:5:3 represents the letters in the club’s name (8-Richmond, 5-Dales, 3-ASC) and using the numbers, each individual came up with their own physical challenge to complete. The only rule was they needed to include all three numbers. For example, Megan Tait, in Year 8, chose to do an 8km bike ride, a 5km run and a 3km row, 5 times a week for 3 weeks – an incredible achievement.

Members were asked to encourage their family and friends involved and to get sponsors for their challenges. As well as raising much-needed funds to purchase the new lane ropes and blocks, this was also a way for those taking part to have some fun! If you would like to donate please visit their Just Giving page.

Keith Hall, Club Development Officer and Coach at Richmond Dales ASC, said: “We are extremely proud of all of our athletes who have remained active and committed throughout this really difficult period. The individual challenges were extremely imaginative and helped to keep the swimmers fit and focused. The funds raised so far really did exceed our expectations so we would like to thank all of our parents and supporters, some of whom took part in challenges themselves. We still have more to do so any further support would be great appreciated but this challenge has been an overwhelming success.”

The club has been supporting its members during the lockdown to help maintain their fitness. In addition, it has brought live ‘Olympic Special Guests’ Zoom meetings to its Monday Education sessions, where past and present Olympians spend time with them, answering their swimming questions.  Ross Davenport, James Guy and Chris Cook have hosted them so far, sharing their experience and knowledge.

Well done to all the students who took part: Roan Cappleman, Georgia Hadley, Carys Meaney, Holly Simeon, Chloe Iddon, Darragh Meaney, Charlie Wallace, Maggie Longstaff, Meghan Tait, Sophie Finlay, Daniel Cutter, Thomas Smith. Steffy Capplemen, Areté Learning trust, was one of the master swimmers.

For further information on Richmond Dales ASC visit their website or their   Facebook page.