Multiple Sclerosis Swimathon, a statewide series in eight locations across Queensland, held its Mackay event on Saturday, 7th October at the DMR Leisure Memorial pool.
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club have supported the MS Swimathon in Mackay for eight events over nine years, with a combined fundraising total of over $52,000 raised.
This year, six teams with some 90 plus participants managed to raise a combined total of $14,496 for Multiple Sclerosis Queensland.
The teams participating in this event included The North Mackay Sinkers, Masters Swimming Club, DMR Leisure, International Polar Bears, Pioneer Swimming Club, LifeInMotion Exercise Physiology Clinic and Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club.
Teams swam a continuous relay for 8 hours with one swimmer in the water at all times.
The more competitive “Hour of Power” pitted up to 8 swimmers from each team in the relay style event.
The honours fell to the PSC Dolphins for another year, with 102 laps. Followed by the North Mackay Sinkers on 100 and the Polar Bears with 98. Team PSC also took the gold medal for most laps swum during the 8 hours.
Swimmers were entertained throughout the day with various games such as trivia, guess the song and movie, a floatie race and an air guitar competition with prizes on offer.
A delicious BBQ breakfast and sausage sizzle helped keep swimmers fuelled and satisfied.
The Sinkers swim on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:45 to 6:45pm, and Saturdays 8 to 9am. If you are interested in swimming, contact 0413 805 156 or prs.nthmkysinkers@gmail.com for details.
Growing this community event is high on the priority list for DMR Leisure, who kindly sponsored the day to maximise fundraising efforts.
For more information or to register your interest in the October 2024 event, please call 1300 090 923 or email events@msqld.org.au.
Donations remain open for another month and can be made at msswimathon.com.au
Contributed by North Mackay Sinkers
QNS Team
Teams in the water
Mascot ‘Ratty’ and MS Swimathon trophy
