Open Water Festival at Hyde Park: Swimmers Dive into Serpentine

On Saturday, over 6,000 participants gathered at the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park, London, for the Swim Serpentine open water swimming festival. This event, now in its seventh year, welcomed swimmers of all ages and abilities, ranging from 10 to 86 years old, who could choose to swim distances of half a mile, one mile, two miles, or six miles. Among the participants was actress Juliet Stevenson, who swam the half-mile distance to support a local refugee and migrant community center. She shared her experience of swimming with fellow participants and humorously noted a minor issue with her wetsuit. Another notable participant was 80-year-old Lena Buckley, who completed the half-mile swim as a birthday celebration, organized by her friend. Despite facing challenges such as cramping, Buckley expressed her determination to take on new challenges in her 80th year, including a 5km run. Her story highlights the spirit of resilience and the desire to remain active at any age. The event also featured Olympic open water swimmer Cassie Patten, who praised the Serpentine as an iconic venue for open water swimming. She emphasized the unique experience of swimming in nature, free from the constraints of traditional swimming pools. The festival not only promotes physical activity but also fosters a sense of community among participants. Swim Serpentine began in 2016 as a legacy of the 2012 London Olympic Games, aiming to encourage open water swimming and celebrate the joy of swimming in natural settings. The event continues to grow in popularity, showcasing the beauty of the Serpentine and the enthusiasm of swimmers from diverse backgrounds.