A brand-new open water swim event for worthy causes will be making a splash on the Welsh coast, with ‘Swim Coppet’ coming to Saundersfoot in September.

The 2025 event will take place on Saturday, September 6 at Coppet Hall Beach, offering swimmers the chance to take on an inspiring sea swim challenge while raising vital funds for two deeply impactful causes - the Robotic Surgery Division at University Hospital of Wales; and Swim Narberth, the community pool and charity.

With three distances available, this non-competitive sportive sea swim encourages confident swimmers to challenge themselves while supporting healthcare and community wellbeing initiatives:

• Swim 1: 3k Coppet Long Hall will be 2 laps covering a distance of 3 kilometres (for swimmers aged 16 years and above)

• Swim 2: 1.5k Coppet Short Hall comprises of 1 lap covering a distance of 1.5 kilometres (for swimmers aged 16 years and above)

• Swim 3: 1.5k Coppet Junior Hall, will see swimmers aged 14 and 15 years only take on 1 lap covering a distance of 1.5 kilometres

All swims will start and finish at Coppet Hall Beach, with participants taking on the open sea in a safe, fully supported environment. The focus is on participation, personal challenge, and community spirit — not on competition — and no official timings will be recorded.

This year’s event carries extra meaning for the community, as Swim Coppet 2025 will raise funds for the Robotic Surgery Division at University Hospital of Wales in honour of Terry, a local man whose story was recently featured on BBC’s Saving Lives in Cardiff.

Terry underwent an incredibly rare and complex robotic procedure to remove an aggressive tumour in his nasal cavity — a surgery that gave him precious extra time with his loved ones. Consultant ENT Surgeon Stuart Quine, who led the operation, described Terry as a “role model” in courage and dignity.

“Terry approached every stage of his journey with grace, and his story reminds us how cutting-edge technology can give families more time together. Swim Coppet is proud to help support the hospital that gave him that chance,” said a spokesperson for the event.

In addition, the event will support Swim Narberth, a registered charity and community pool in Narberth. Run by a passionate team and a dedicated Board of Trustees, Swim Narberth provides inclusive swimming facilities, expert instruction, and accessible exercise for people of all ages and abilities.

“Swim Narberth is more than just a pool,” said a Swim Coppet organiser. “It serves as a hub for physical wellbeing, lifelong skills, and accessible opportunities for all. Supporting them through Swim Coppet ensures more people can access swimming for physical and mental health.”

Safety is a priority, and all swimmers are required to wear the provided event swim hat, carry a tow float, and display their event wristband throughout their swim. The sea state and tide conditions will guide the final course setup, and participants must have previous sea swimming experience.

Spectators, supporters, and families are encouraged to join in the spirit of the day, enjoy the stunning coastal setting, and cheer on swimmers as they take on this challenge for charity.

Tickets for Swim Coppet 2025 are now on sale. For full entry details, terms and conditions, and how to donate or get involved, please visit: https://www.saundersfoot.co.uk/swimcoppet/