Two of the Charlton Upbeats took on Charlton Athletic forward Josh Magennis and midfielder Jake Forster-Caskey in a freestyle swimming race at David Lloyd Sidcup to promote the upcoming Upbeats Walk, which is taking place on Saturday 14 April.
Billy Birchmore, an 11-time gold medallist at the Down’s syndrome International Swimming Organisation European Championships in November, and Jack Lyons, who also represents Team GB, swam eight lengths in a team race in the outdoor pool.
Jake got his team off to a strong start, swimming the first four of his team’s eight 20-metre lengths.
Watch the video for free on Valley Pass to find out what happened next.
The Upbeats programme, which is celebrating its 10th year, caters for adults, young people and children with Down's syndrome.
The Upbeats are six-time winners of the Down's Syndrome Active National Championships, and training sessions have a regular attendance of 40. In addition to offering the opportunity to play competitive football, the Upbeats participate in a range of social events and training opportunities such as FA Level 1 coaching and work experience with CACT.
The programme is completely funded by voluntary donations, many of which are raised through the Upbeats Walk. Click here to sign up to the Upbeats Walk, which will take place ahead of Charlton’s game against Scunthorpe United.
Donations to the programme can be made online.
The swimming race was started by ITRM Business Operations Manager Sue Thorpe.
Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) is grateful to ITRM, patrons Regular Cleaning and motability partners WJ King for the support they give the Upbeats.