Charlton was a coach at the club for years and was also a mentor to many of the kids who were involved in the club over the years.

Last year, Charlton sadly passed away from cancer, although the club is hoping his spirit and enthusiasm can live on through this event each year.

The swimathon will kick off with a splash at 3pm with anyone welcome to attend whether they are swimming or not.

Swimmers will be sponsored by parents, families and friends of the club to complete a certain amount of laps, with the maximum distance being 1500m per person.

The club is hoping plenty of people will get down there to swim and to sponsor the swimmers and enjoy the day.

Club spokesman David Turner said Charlton  was an amazing coach and has left a legacy for all swimmers who were lucky enough to be mentored by him.

All money raised will be split between the Cancer Foundation and also to a fund to help disadvantaged swimmers.

“He believed in giving everybody an opportunity and would have been proud of the achievements made in the club this season,” Turner said.

The swimathon comes on the eve of the Sharks sending their biggest contingent ever to the NSW Country Championships.

After qualifying at several different carnivals throughout the season, including their own a fortnight ago, 15 kids are making the trip.

The Tamworth club is sending athletes aged from 10 to 17 years old, with some returning for a second year.

Mikaela Short and Eloise Turner will be busy after qualifying for seven events and six events respectively.

Head coach Nicolas Monet is hoping for some good results.

“The kids have been working hard this season and swimming competitive times,” Monet said.

“We are hoping for a few places and some top ten finishers at least.”

The Country Champs will be held at the Homebush Aquatic Centre next weekend, February 22 and 23.