Cardiff Met Swimathon 2026 Makes a Splash for Project Zambia
- Ryan David
- Feb 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Cardiff Met’s Learn to Swim swimmers turned February into a month of big lengths, big smiles, and even bigger impact. Across three lively evenings on 24th, 26th and 28th February, the annual Cardiff Met Swimathon powered its way to a record-breaking total of £2,100 for Project Zambia: the highest amount raised since the event began three years ago.
And yes, it absolutely smashed last year’s £1,800 milestone.
A Pool Full of Community Spirit
If you were anywhere near the Cyncoed pool, you’d have heard it: the cheers, the splashing, the countdowns, the proud gasps from parents as young swimmers pushed themselves further than ever.
This year, 175 junior swimmers took part, representing over half of the entire Learn to Swim programme. That’s more than 7 hours of continuous energy in the water, led by 12 dedicated aquatics staff, and supported by 7 amazing Project Zambia student volunteers who brought even more excitement to the deck. The atmosphere had everything: determination, celebration, team spirit, and the occasional victory dance on the poolside tiles.
Moments That Stood Out
Every swimmer contributed, whether it was through fundraising, extra lengths, or simply turning up ready to give it their all. But one moment stopped everyone in their tracks.
Joey Edwards, a swimmer from our 1-2-1 Level Water Inclusive Swimming Programme raised £137, the largest individual contribution of the entire event. It was a reminder of what inclusive sport can do when barriers are removed and confidence is allowed to shine. It wasn’t just a donation. It was a message: everyone can make a difference.
Raising the Bar for 2027
The final total, £2,100, did more than set a new record. It showed what happens when families, staff, students, and young swimmers come together for something bigger than themselves.
Children counted their lengths. Parents counted their pledges. The whole event counted toward a cause that reaches far beyond Cardiff.
Why It Matters
Every pound raised goes directly to Project Zambia, supporting education, sport, and community development projects that change lives. By swimming their hearts out, our Learn to Swim children helped create opportunities for young people across the world. They may have started in a pool in Cardiff, but their impact stretches more than 8,000 kilometres.
A Final Cheer
To our swimmers, parents, teachers, volunteers, and supporters: thank you. Your enthusiasm carried this event from warm-up to cooldown. Whether your child swam 50 metres or 500, whether you donated pennies or pounds, you were part of something meaningful.
And if this year is anything to go by, 2027 had better get ready.
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