Get involved: The Big Swim 2025
It’s not just about plunging into cold water – The Big Swim is a cold water swimming event about connection, courage, empowerment and community. Here’s why we’re getting involved – and how you can too.
The Big Swim 2025 will take place on International Women’s Day (8 March) with more than 1,000 cold water swimmers in two stunning locations – Brighton and Sandbanks, Dorset. The south coast’s largest wild swimming gathering is about celebrating International Women’s Day as part of a vibrant and supportive swim community.
As outdoor swimmers who live, breathe – and write about – outdoor swimming, we know the power of cold water and community. The Big Swim exemplifies that power—supporting, celebrating, and championing each other. Our Editor, Ella Foote, and Commercial Director, Yvonne Turner, will be heading to Brighton to take part in this record-breaking event
Celebrating women
International Women’s Day is a moment to pause, reflect, and advocate for women from all backgrounds and locations. The Big Swim embodies that spirit by inviting people—women, families, and friends—to unite in a vibrant display of solidarity.
This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, reminds us that fighting for gender equity requires everyone’s efforts and contributions. By swimming, dipping, or cheering from the side lines, we’re showing support for women worldwide in a meaningful and joyful way. There is no place for ego at the water’s edge, and there is no greater leveller than the sea.
Uniting through wild swimming
There’s something magical about the sea—the way it connects us to ourselves, to nature and to each other.
“Wild swimming has become my sanctuary, a place where I feel alive, free, and part of a larger community,” says event organiser, Nicky Chisholm. “The thought of gathering 1,000 swimmers across two stunning locations to share in that experience is exhilarating.”
Nicky is also asking participating swimmers to each take one action to help and elevate women in their communities. From leaving positive reviews and recommending local female-owned businesses to supporting or volunteering at organisations that support women, she encourages swimmers to think about how they can contribute.
“Small actions can have a ripple effect, creating long-term, meaningful change that extends far beyond the day itself,” she says.
Making cold water waves
It’s not just about supporting women. Nicky is also passionate about protecting our oceans.
“One of the reasons I’m so passionate about The Big Swim is its commitment to giving back,” she says. “This event proudly supports Surfers Against Sewage, a charity dedicated to protecting our oceans from pollution and fighting for a sustainable future.”
The event is also supported by incredible partners like PinkNicky’s Blog, Land and Wave, and many others who are dedicated to making this day safe, fun, and memorable.
Visit PinkNickys Blog and see her weekly updates.
Join us
Tickets went live on Monday, January 20th, 2025, and they’re selling out fast! To join Ella, Yvonne and 998 others:
- Book your tickets here
- Get Social: Follow PinkNicky #TheBigSwim on social media and invite your friends.
See you on the beach!
