The 12th Annual Elan Round the Sound Long Distance Swim-a -Thon will be held this Sunday, organisers announced yesterday.

And the funds raised by the event, which has raised more than $250,000 for charity to date, will this year go to The Family Learning Center, a local charity which helps children and their families.

Organiser Reeve Trott said: "The primary purpose of the Round The Sound Swim-a-Thon is to raise funds for a local charity.

"This year the charity chosen is The Family Learning Center that specialises in helping children and families in crisis.

Martha Dismont, executive director of the Family Learning Centre, said: "We are delighted that we have been selected as the recipient of the funds raised at this years' Round The Sound Swim-a-Thon and extremely grateful to their committee for recognising our needs for continuous funding."

Mr. Trott said that by the end of this year's race, more than 1,500 swimmers will have competed over the 12-year period.

"There are 180 swimmers registered for the Race this Sunday, ranging in age from 72 years old to five years old, who will be attempting the eight K (kilometre) race.

"Over the past 11 years, the Race has raised over $250,000 for charity and promotes good health and fitness," he continued.

Participating in the event this year is a 12 year old who will be attempting the ten kilometre distance along with 20 others.

Mr. Trott said: "There will be plenty of prizes to be won at the festive prize giving function that will be held right after the event.

"All competitors are eligible for the grand prize which is a weekend for two at Sonesta Beach Resort."

Other prizes will be awarded to those swimmers who have collected the highest amount in pledges and trophies will be awarded to the fastest swimmers in each category.

Prizes include two speed boat adventures on the Wildcat, two Dolphin Quest experiences, one hour of water skiing with Kent Richardson amd two brunches at La Coquille.

The entrance fee for the event is $25 with a late fee of $30.

Those people that wish to participate in this event should complete an entry form and hand it in to Mr. Trott at International Imports on Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton.

Pledge fund sheets should be turned in by Saturday and competitors' bags can be collected between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on that day.

All pledge funds should be turned in no later than October 21, 2002.

The Race Committee would like to encourage people to come out and support the swimmers in this exciting and challenging event.