Ambassador Laura delighted to back in the swim

After months of frustration, Swimathon Ambassador Laura Jane has been delighted to get back in the pool.

Jane, from Worthing, swims at Littlehampton Wave and says that for so many swimmers, pools being closed has meant tough times – unable to train or see friends, and lacking that freedom that comes from swimming.

Indoor sport facilities reopened on April 12 as coronavirus restrictions eased.

“The first time back was amazing – I’ve been desperate to get back to doing what I love for so long.

“I’ve missed the heavenly scent of chlorine, the goggle marks that were once tattooed to my face, the too tight latex cap that always manages to find its way off of my head mid session, everything! It’s certainly been a rollercoaster emotionally and I was so ready to dive in headfirst and lose my hat all over again!”

Having to cope without swimming over multiple lockdowns has been a tremendous challenge for so many across the UK. Jane said: “It’s difficult to put into words. Swimming; in many ways, has saved me and without it I start to crumble.

“I’ve struggled to find an alternative form of exercise that not only I agree with, but also my body. My joints tend to have the last laugh when it comes to anything on dry land!

“This lockdown has certainly felt the most demanding. Combining both pressures of home-schooling and being ‘mum’, and to then have that crucial five minutes of ‘me time’ taken away has had a huge impact on my mental health.”

To find out about Swimathon Foundation, visit swimathonfoundation.org