Whether it was backstroke, doggy paddle or freestyle, swimmers hit the water for a 24-hour fundraising marathon on the weekend.
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Nine teams and 140 swimmers took the plunge for Wollongong’s eighth MS (Multiple Sclerosis) 24-hour Mega Swim.
Figtree Lions Club spokesman Bill Wright said they expected to raise between $25,000 and $30,000 from the eighth annual swim, held at the University of Wollongong’s UniActive pool.
The annual MS Mega Swim has raised more than $275,000 over the previous seven years to fund Go for Gold scholarships for multiple sclerosis sufferers.
The swim started at 12pm on Saturday and concluded at midday on Sunday.
Teams of up to 15 members participated by swimming laps in relay over 24 hours and by fundraising.
Each team was required to have a swimmer in the water at all times during the 24-hour event.
Rain has often plagued previous installments.
“This was the first time we’ve had a dry one,” Mr Wright said.
“It’s the first time it hasn’t rained at some stage during the event, and the hottest one we’ve ever had.”
Mr Wright said the Go for Gold scholarships were awarded for employment, education, sport, art or any other worthwhile supporting need.