2026 flash quotes

“It’s been great to come down and experience it (Swim Serpentine). I’d never swum in the Serpentine before, but I’d be keen to come back. It’s been great to do it as part of a big event. There’s a lot of good energy.

“We’ve got a huge challenge coming up on Monday. There are six of us taking on the English Channel as part of a relay team doing one hour each.”

George Taplin, British elite open-water endurance swimmer, who completed the two-mile distance before being part of a English Channel world record attempt on Monday 21 September. 

"It was really fun; I really enjoyed it. Swimming makes me feel happy and calm. It makes me feel like I’m gliding through the water.” 

Thomas Furze, aged 12, is the youngest participant at 2026 Swim Serpentine, and completed the half-mile distance with his dad, David. 

“Today was amazing! The vibe at Swim Serpentine is brilliant – loads of people, some dancing and music, we’re having a great time. When Thomas said he wanted to do the half-mile I was like, ‘that’s brilliant, let’s go and do it!’

“Being confident and safe in the water is essential – it’s one of those life skills that we’ve all got to be good at. The problem is now; I’ve got to keep up with him – he’s like a bit of a torpedo in the water! It’s amazing to do Swim Serpentine as a family – it's a great weekend to celebrate Thomas’ birthday.”  

David Furze, Thomas' dad.

“Today was a really hard swim for me. Yesterday, I lost my father-in-law to Alzheimer's, and I didn’t know whether I was going to come here or not, but I did this for him. This is for you Mr Eddie – grampa Eddie. Thank you for accepting me into your family and for everything you’ve done for me.

“I started swimming one and a half years ago. Swimming has been a release for me – I feel free in the water. You can do anything you want!”

Ana Vieira, who completed the one-mile distance in memory of her father-in-law
 

“When I was 19, I was diagnosed with blood cancer. The treatment for that left me with a high risk of developing breast cancer, so last year I had a double mastectomy. I’m here to raise awareness for breast cancer.

“I struggle to stay motivated; I’m not going to lie! But it’s about the bigger picture, it’s not about me, it’s not about the medals, it’s about raising awareness and money for charity, and that’s something I’m really proud of.”

Sam Smith, a cancer survivor who was swimming to raise money for breast cancer awareness charity, CoppaFeel!