The Pentland Group’s support for us began in late 2018 with a focus on creating opportunities for over 2,000 Panathletes every year to gain water skills and confidence through our swimming programme.
They have since generously extended that support to our multiskills programme for primary-age pupils across England and Wales.
The Pentland Group, who own the Speedo brand amongst others, have also supported Panathlon with the supply of thousands of silicone Speedo swim hats for children to wear in our competitions.
Panathlon’s provision of specialist swimming events for children with disabilities and special needs has expanded hugely over the last few years, thanks to Pentland’s unwavering support. We have launched competitive pathways for varying age groups as well as specific impairments including deaf and visually impaired pupils.
Many of our swimming finals take place at the London Aquatics Centre, venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Competing at such a prestigious venue has a lasting effect on the children.
Staff from Pentland Brands have volunteered as Panathlon Leaders on many occasions. In November 2022, 20 high-flyers from as far afield as New Zealand and Hong Kong on a Speedo global leadership programme volunteered at a Panathlon primary swimming gala at the Aquatics Centre.
“It’s great seeing the impact that we’re making,” said Pentland’s Investment Manager Simon Lum. “The energy and smiles from the children and the event’s competitive nature are exactly what Speedo stands for.”
Eight Pentland Brands employees (above) were left with an “indescribable feeling of joy” after supporting children with disabilities and special needs at a primary Panathlon competition in Sunderland in February 2023.
“I never expected the feeling that today has given me,” said an emotional Ali Fayer. “Seeing the joy on the children’s faces was just incredible. They were so excited.
“The winning and losing was secondary to them – it was all about being part of a team and doing something they could be successful in, which seemed like it was a new experience for them.
“Thank you to Pentland for giving us the breathing space to do this – and to Panathlon for having us. It was a genuinely moving experience.”
Read more about Pentland Group’s corporate responsibility priorities.
