SLICE 2025: Shaftesbury Lido Ice Championship Extravaganza
The countdown has begun for a landmark event in Shaftesbury. On Saturday, 16th February 2025, Shaftesbury Lido will host its first-ever cold water swim championships: the Shaftesbury Lido Ice Championship Extravaganza (SLICE).
This is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of the growing cold water swimming community and an opportunity for Shaftesbury to take the spotlight on the national stage.
What is SLICE?
SLICE 2025 is a dedicated championship for swimmers acclimatised to cold water. With temperatures expected to dip below 5ºC, this is no casual swim – it’s a test of endurance, skill, and the ability to embrace the chill. Competitors from across the country will join us for a series of individual and relay races, from the high-energy bobble hat dash to the challenging 16-length endurance swim.
If you’re not a seasoned cold water swimmer but still want to join in the fun, don’t worry – there’s a Leisure Swim during afternoon registration (1230–1300). Open to anyone, it’s a perfect way to dip your toes into the cold water experience and share in the spirit of the day.
For the Competitors
SLICE is for swimmers who are already acclimatised to cold water. If you’re up for the challenge, here’s what you need to know:
- Entries Open: 9am 2nd January 2025
- Entries Close: Midnight, 1st February 2025
- Event Day: 16th February 2025
To enter, you must be over 18, prepared for the cold, and ready to swim in non-thermal swimwear. Full details, including race rules and safety requirements, can be found on our SLICE page.
The day wraps up with a Prizegiving Ceremony (3:30 – 4:00pm), celebrating the extraordinary efforts of our competitors. Medals will be awarded for each event, marking the first chapter of what could be an annual tradition.
Train for the Challenge
If you’re competing, preparation is key. Shaftesbury Lido is open for cold water swimming every Saturday morning and Wednesday evening, offering the perfect chance to build your cold water endurance before the big day.
You can book your training sessions on our Booking page.
Beyond the Competition
SLICE is as much about community as it is about competition. Even if you’re not racing, there’s plenty to enjoy. During the afternoon registration, there will be a relaxing Leisure Swim where everyone can book and share in the day’s excitement. Warm up afterwards with hot refreshments, including homemade cakes, hot chocolate, and hearty bites from a local food van. Don’t miss out on the chance to snag some exclusive SLICE 2025 merchandise – details on pre-orders will be available soon. And, of course, there’s a raffle where you can try your luck at winning fun prizes. Proceeds will go to supporting the future Lido refurbishments.
Making Waves for Shaftesbury
SLICE is a milestone event for the town, drawing cold water swimmers from across the country. It’s a chance for Shaftesbury to shine and for the Lido to secure vital funds for renovations and improvements.
Whether you’re competing, spectating, or dipping into the Leisure Swim, SLICE is a must-attend event. Competitor entries open at 9am on 2nd January 2025, so don’t delay if you’re ready to take on the chill.
Get all the details and register on our Bookwhen page.
Thank you for supporting SLICE 2025. Not only will it bring the cold water swimming community together in the heart of Shaftesbury, but we will be raising vital funds for the future of Shaftesbury Lido.
