The weather was perfect – blue skies and high temperatures – and the sea calm. At 11am on Christmas Day, dozens of “Santas” ran towards the sea in Armação de Pêra for their annual dip in aid of charity.
The annual “Swim for Shoes” initiative aims to raise funds to buy shoes for underprivileged children.
Certificates were awarded to those who got wet and everyone enjoyed a glass of hot chocolate and brandy wine in the Holiday Inn Algarve Bar afterwards.
This year’s event had, for the first time, the support of events organiser, Portugal4U, and the Albufeira Surf Clube, who added to the excitement by arriving by sea.
Organisers would like to thank everyone who participated, and Dave Sheldrake and Diogo Correia for photographing the event.
On Christmas Day, more than €900 was raised, but there will be another opportunity to contribute to the cause on New Year’s Day. All you need to do is turn up with swimwear, towel and go in for a full swim or just a paddle. It takes place at 11am on the beach in front of the Holiday Inn Algarve. Just the way to recover from the festivities of New Year’s Eve! Welcome in 2015 by paddling or swimming in the Atlantic Ocean!
See more photos at:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.907795999265600.1073741860.235485166496690&type=1
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.738520362902113.1073741840.625141854239965&type=1
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.886759064689186.1073741862.133660873332346&type=3
Christmas Day swim a success – now prepare for New Year’s Day dip!
