Making a Splash for International Women’s Day: Record-breaking Big Dip!

While the vast majority of spots for the two iconic South Coast locations were snapped up in just three weeks, a few last remaining tickets are still available for those ready to take the leap. Whether you are diving into the waves or joining the crowd on the shoreline as a passionate ally for equality and clean seas, head down to the coast next weekend and you’ll become part of a powerful national movement.

The Big Swim is the inspired creation of Brighton adventurer Nicky Chisholm, known as ‘PinkNicky,’ who has partnered with outdoor expert Rosie Tanner of Land and Wave to organise this sea-based tribute to female resilience. The event takes place on Saturday, March 14th, beginning with the Poole dip at Sandbanks at 10AM, followed by the Brighton Sea Lanes dip at 1:20 PM. Dippers will be dressed in ‘warm and sparkly’ swimsuits, and there will be special appearances from two RNLI crews. The event is a culmination of long-standing campaigns to encourage more women to work and play in the great outdoors.

Beyond the celebration, the event carries a vital environmental message through its partnership with official charity Surfers Against Sewage. This year is being described as a "watershed moment" for the UK’s waterways, with the swim highlighting the urgent need for radical reform in the water industry.

Jo Morley, Head of Campaigns and Advocacy at SAS, says: “This is set to be an epic event and every penny raised will help us fuel the fight for clean waters. This is a watershed year and as a community of water users we are shouting louder than ever, urging the Government to end profit from pollution.

“Whilst we’re hoping that sewage doesn’t disrupt this incredible swim, water quality can be checked via the Safer Seas and Rivers Service, a free app providing real-time pollution alerts. People should be free to use the water without fear of getting sick, and that’s why we are demanding urgent, radical action on the broken water industry.”

Inclusivity and the Ripple Effect are at the heart of this year's mission, and the event will also welcome its first-ever wheelchair and adaptive swimmers, whose participation will help shape future accessibility initiatives in the local community. While the event centres on women, people of all genders are invited to join as allies to stand for equality. As part of the celebration, everyone involved is encouraged to take one tangible action to elevate a woman-led business or campaign in their own area, ensuring the impact of the day reaches far beyond the coast.

With only the last remaining spots left for the 1,000-swimmer limit, now is the final chance to secure your place in the water via the official event pages for Brighton and Poole. As PinkNicky told us: “This is a mini adventure waiting to happen that will truly make your soul sing. By heading to the coast this March, you aren't just joining a swim; you are part of a national community dedicated to change, celebration, and the spirit of sisterhood”.

• To sign up, or for more information, you can visit the official Eventbrite page here.