Our First Summer Swim Challenge
Summer Swim Challenge at West Country Water Park on 9 July 2026
On Wednesday 9 July we held our very first Open Minds Active Summer Swim Challenge at West Country Water Park, and what a lovely morning it was. Over 50 swimmers took part on totally flat, calm water under clear blue skies. There were definitely a few nerves for those trying the longer distance, but from the moment everyone arrived there was a real sense of excitement. Some swimmers were taking on 1km, others had signed up for the 2km challenge, and everyone was there for their own reason. Whether it was building confidence, training for an event or simply enjoying a morning in the water with others, every swim was worth celebrating.
One of the best parts of the day was seeing the support people gave each other. There were plenty of encouraging words before the start and smiles out on the water, with members of our team even singing their support at times from a paddleboard (thanks Melissa!). Every swimmer received a cheer as they came up the steps after finishing. It was a reminder that our community is about so much more than swimming. After the event, one of our regular ladies ran into the Open Minds Active office on her way home, beaming, with an excited "I can't believe I've done it!!"
Recognising achievement and building confidence is a key part of our work, which is why we wanted everyone to have 1km and 2km swim badges for finishing. These were a huge hit — I mean, who doesn't love a badge?
Thank you to everyone who came along, took part, volunteered or supported from the side. Your encouragement and enthusiasm made the morning what it was. We were also able to raise £500 towards our community projects which means a lot.
A big thank you as well to the team at West Country Water Park for hosting us and helping everything run so smoothly. We're so proud of everyone who joined us and can't wait to do it all again next summer.
We'll be back with another community challenge soon, so keep an eye on our social channels. Whether it's your first event or your fifth, there's always a place for you in the water with us.
