The Royal Air Force Swimming Association is celebrating its centenary year, marking 100 years of competitive excellence, personal development and service through sport.
Founded in 1926, the Association has spent the last century promoting swimming across the Royal Air Force, providing opportunities for personnel of all abilities to develop their skills, represent the Service at the highest levels and enjoy the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of sport.
Over the past 100 years, RAF swimmers have competed with distinction at national and international levels, including Inter-Service competitions and representative events, while the Association has continued to foster camaraderie, resilience and teamwork among personnel from across the RAF.
The centenary celebrations recognise not only the achievements of elite athletes, but also the countless volunteers, coaches, officials and supporters who have contributed to the success and longevity of Service swimming.
Group Capt Anne-Marie said:
"As we celebrate 100 years of the RAF Swimming Association, we reflect on a proud history of achievement, dedication and teamwork. The Association has provided generations of RAF personnel with opportunities to challenge themselves, build lifelong friendships and represent the Service with pride. This centenary is an opportunity to honour those who have gone before us and inspire the next generation of RAF swimmers."
Group Capt Anne-Marie
The Association's continued success reflects the importance the RAF places on sport as a means of developing leadership, resilience and operational effectiveness. Through organised competitions, training opportunities and representative sport, the Royal Air Force Swimming Association remains committed to supporting personnel across the Service.
Throughout its centenary year, the Association will commemorate key milestones, celebrate past and present achievements and highlight the contribution swimming has made to the Royal Air Force community over the last century.
As the Royal Air Force Swimming Association enters its second century, it remains focused on growing participation, nurturing talent and ensuring swimming continues to play a vital role in Service life for years to come. The 4 disciplines in what will become known as RAF Aquatics after today are swimming, diving, water polo and open water.
