Two York swimming pools are inviting swimmers to get on their marks and sign up to join others nationwide to raise awareness of the benefits of the sport and to fundraise for charity.

Swimmers in York will take the plunge at Energise on Saturday 22 March and Yearsley Pool on Sunday 23 March 2014 as they take on the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Swimathon.

There are set distances of 1.5 kilometres, 2.5k or 5k for individuals or you can form a relay squad to take part in the Swimathon with your friends.

Entries are now open, so sign up, get training and help make this an even more successful event than last year.

Entries can be made at http://www.swimathon.org/

Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds OBE commented:“I’m really keen on making swimming accessible for everyone and there is a challenge to suit all levels of expertise at the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Swimathon. I’d encourage people to take the plunge and make every length count by being sponsored to take on a challenge and do their bit for Sport Relief!”

Duncan Goodhew commented:“Swimmers of all ages and abilities can take on a challenge in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Swimathon. Whether it’s a length of their local swimming pool or the Team 5k – every length counts. With 600 pools taking part this year, there is even more opportunity to train early for your challenge, while raising much needed cash for Sport Relief.”

Half price entry to the Swimathon is available either until the 12 January or until the 10,000th early bird entry is received, whichever is the soonest.