Having been an international swimmer for 20 years I am shocked at how often people tell me they can’t swim. About 1 in 4 eleven year olds and 1 in 5 adults in Britain can’t, a frightening statistic when you think how many families go to beach resorts or to hotels with pools for their holidays. At Karen Pickering SWIM we are trying to put that right by offering top quality, fun lessons all around the country. We have experienced teachers ready to help children & adults of all ages and abilities, even those who have a fear of water, so that everyone can get the same enjoyment and health benefits I did from the sport. OUR ETHOS Fun No age barriers Health and Fitness      Safety Flexible programmes Enjoyment Quality Small Class sizes   I am taking part in the Walk Like an Olympian- Great Wall of China Trek in 10 days time so I have been busy getting into shape and breaking in my shoes!   The trek is being organised by the British Olympic Foundation and I will be raising money for them. The BOF aims to create learning opportunities for young people through sport and education to encourage personal development, fair play and personal excellence. With a variety of initiatives including; sports camps, workshops, conferences & international exchanges they aim to touch young people's lives with the Olympic dream from primary through to university level students. I will also be raising money for Team Ipswich who give grants to up and coming sports people in the town to help with their training and competition costs which can make the difference between them being able to realise their dreams or having to miss out. I will be walking for up to 8 hours a day for 5 days so this is a huge challenge for me. Any sponsorship would be greatly appreciated and you can make donations by going to www.justgiving.com/karenpickering1