The Return of the Hillingdon ‘Fustin Cup For Tuf-Uns’!
Hillingdon Lido 2023 Season
The Return of the Hillingdon ‘Fustin Cup For Tuf-Uns’!
May the 1st not only marks the reopening of Hillingdon’s ever popular Lido, but the return of the Fustin Cup!
The Fustin Cup was first started in 1937 and was awarded to the first swimmer to swim the 20m width of the pool on the opening day of the season. The trophy’s name and writing is Fustin (first one in) and for Tuf-uns (tough ones). Which, historically with the season starting early May and with temperatures sitting at 50° F (10°c) , it certainly was for tough ones! The trophy was first held by Tony Wells.
This year for the Lido season opening, we were exceptionally fortunate to have Cllr Eddie Lavery, the council’s Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services visit. Along with 90 year old, John Ross, who has fond memories spanning back to over 70 years ago when he used to play water polo at the Lido. John and his son also very kindly provided the Lido with a wonderful replica of the original Fustin Cup which will be displayed at Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex for all to see.
This year’s Fustin Cup was well attended with six eager competitors braving the water and taking on the challenge. However, there could only be one winner and this year that winner is Alan Dorricot, claiming the title of the ‘2023 Hillingdon Fustin Cup Winner’! The trophy was presented shortly after the race by Christopher Parker (General Manager) and John Ross, with Alan receiving his very own ‘2023 Fustin Cup’ trophy.
After the morning dip, swimmers were then able to relax and warm up with complimentary hot drinks whilst having a chat with each other and admire the well-kept archived photos of the Lido on display.
Throughout the duration of May, the meeting room containing the Lido’s photo archives, next to the Lido itself will be open for all lido swimmers to warm themselves up in and enjoy a free hot drink after their swim. The Lido will be open 7 days a week with morning and afternoon slots available.
So don’t forget to join the fun and book your slot now at: