Channel swimmers training together in open water with tow floats

English Channel Relay
Documents Hub

Everything you need throughout your relay journey.

From medical forms and assessment swims to fundraising resources and official Channel documentation, this is your central library throughout your preparation.

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Operating Principles

These principles are for everyone connected with SwimTayka - our staff, trustees, volunteers, partners, donors and the communities we serve. They guide how we work together and help us carry out our mission with integrity, respect and professionalism.

Respect

We honour the diverse perspectives, skills and experiences of everyone involved in our mission. We treat all individuals with dignity, fairness and professionalism.

Integrity

We act with honesty and transparency, upholding ethical standards and ensuring openness in our decisions and actions.

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We communicate with clarity, listen actively and foster a culture of mutual respect and collaboration.

Excellence

We strive for high standards in everything we do, creating meaningful and lasting contributions.

English Channel Relay Swimmers Handbook 2026 cover
★ Featured

Swimmers Handbook 2026

Preparing for an English Channel relay is about much more than swimming. This handbook will guide you through every stage of your journey, from training to your swim window in Dover.

✓ Cold water ✓ Teamwork ✓ Nutrition ✓ The Channel ✓ Safety ✓ Dover and swim window
38 minsReading time 2026Version March 2026Last updated
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Your relay library

Essential Documents

Required CS&PF Membership Application cover

CS&PF Membership Application

Register with the Channel Swimming & Piloting Federation to validate your relay entry and confirm your eligibility.

Version 2026Current form required
Open membership application
Required Medical Assessment Form 2026 cover

Medical Assessment Form 2026

A thorough medical evaluation by a qualified doctor confirming your fitness for cold-water Channel swimming.

Version 2026Doctor required
Download
Required Assessment Swim Form 2026 cover

Assessment Swim Form 2026

Record and verify completion of the required relay assessment swim for submission to CS&PF.

Version 2026Observer signature required
Download

Helpful resources

Reference

SwimTayka Team Guide cover

SwimTayka Team Guide

A practical guide for your English Channel relay, covering team roles, preparation, communication and what to expect as you work together towards your Channel.

English Channel relayTeam preparation guide
Download
SwimTayka Annual Report 2024 cover

SwimTayka Annual Report 2024

Discover how SwimTayka taught 9,700 children, expanded into two new countries and delivered eight programmes globally.

Version 1.0Published 2024
Download
SwimTayka Brand Guidelines cover

SwimTayka Brand Guidelines

Official guidance covering the SwimTayka identity, logos, typography, colours, imagery and correct usage.

Version 1.0Official guidance
Download
Cold Water Mini Guide cover

Cold Water Mini Guide

Practical Tips for Safe & Confident Swimming Through the Colder Months

By Alice GoodridgeWith additional top tips from the cold water swimming community
Read guide
Swim Ratification Process guide cover

Swim Ratification Process

A simple guide explaining the English Channel swim ratification process, what happens after your swim, and when your result becomes officially confirmed.

English Channel swimmingRatification guide
Read guide