July 2023 sees the return of the Varsity Channel Relay! Six swimmers from the University of Cambridge will race Oxford across the English Channel from Dover to Calais.

Almost every other year since 1988, Cambridge and Oxford have raced across the English Channel. In memory of Nick Thomas, the cofounder of the relay, we will be raising money for Cancer Research UK. We will also be raising money for Parkinson's UK. 25% of the money raised will go to Cancer Research UK and 25% to Parkinson's UK.

The relay takes place in hour long rotations until the French coastline is reached. Wetsuits are not permitted, so all that is protecting the swimmers from the 15 degree water (and jellyfish) is a swimming costume, swim hat and a pair of goggles. We hope the swim will take us between 8 to 12 hours. Swimmers will need to bring bags full of mental and physical determination for this challenging swim!

We will be training in Jesus Green Lido, the River Cam and hopefully be travelling further afield to help acclimatise to the sea conditions and cold water.

We would like to thank you so much for all the support you are able to give us! The money raised will be going to fantastic causes and also to help cover the substantial costs of boat hire, registration with the Channel Swimming Association and transport to Dover.

Evie, Jas, Ellie, Tom, Flynn, Ed and Alfie :)