2022 Mackay Sinkers MS Swimathon
The North Mackay Sinkers continue to support the annual Multiple Sclerosis Swimathon, one of eight such events in Queensland during 2022.
This year’s event was the 7th we have participated in with some 19 members registering for the 12 hour event held on Saturday 8th October. An early start at 6 am didn’t deter the first swimmers including Nigel Dalton, Steve Burchill and Paul Ardvidson but Club President Dan Stampa again made the start with some 5 minutes to spare. Both Rik & Sue de Meer among the earlier starters to help set up our station for the big day. In all the Sinkers swam 772 laps for some 38km (2021-726 lap) During the hectic hour of power we managed some 84 laps but were outgunned by 2 laps by the younger generation.
Keeping us entertained were the MS team with some classic music and events including a 50m dash, guess that song and other novelty races.
The top three fundraisers were all Sinkers and I believe 8 of the top ten fundraiser were Sinkers also. While we didn’t match it with the younger teams for the hour of power event or most laps swum we did excel in fundraising with the highest team total which was also a pb for the club with a grand total of $11,050 for the MS cause (all teams total $14,180). To date the Sinkers have raised almost $40,763 across the seven events giving extra purpose to the laps.
All in all a long but fun filled day enjoyed by the club with all teams enjoying a great day at the pool.
Since the MS Swimathon commenced various Masters clubs have participated with the Cairns Mudcrabs leading the way in 2011, Our collective efforts have raised just over $100,000 for Multiple Sclerosis Qld. Well done to all clubs involved.
I would encourage any masters club to consider participating in what is an opportunity to be community minded in our chosen sport. Interested clubs can contact the author for more details, register their interest or approach Multiple Sclerosis Qld direct at 07 3840 0812 or email swimathon@msqld.org.au
You can always follow the link for details at MS Swimathon Info
