Marie Curie Cancer Foundation Swimathon at Queen's Physical Education Centre

Queen's Sport is among the bodies hosting the nationwide event which was launched earlier this month by Queen's graduate Zoe Salmon and Olympic gold medallist Duncan Goodhew.

Zoe said: "I've always found swimming a really good way to keep in shape. Everyone needs a challenge now and again, especially to keep motivated during the cold winter months. And what better additional spur than to help out Marie Curie Cancer Care - a charity that does such crucial work right around the UK? I can't wait to take part.

There will be four sessions held at Queen's Sport between Friday 16 April and Sunday 18 April. During each session there will be three lanes, allowing 15 swimmers in the pool at once. There are distance challenges of 1.5k, 2.5k and 5k, team challenges of 5k and ‘simple swim'.

Fundraisers can benefit from more than getting in shape; there are several awards for raising target amounts. The top fundraiser will win a SwimTrek break for two to a European destination of their choice.

Swimathon 2010 has a challenge to suit everyone with swimmers challenging themselves to complete up to 5K as an individual or as a team with their friends and family. To register to take part, visit the Swimathon website at www.swimathon.org or telephone the Support Line on 0845 36 700 36.