Swimming for Gold, the latest young adult feature film from The Steve Jaggi Company (Rip Tide, Back of the Net), will be released in cinemas across Australia from September 17. The film stars U.S actor Peyton List (Jessie, Bunk’d) alongside Australian cast members Daniel Needs, Lauren Esposito, Olivia Nardini, Johrel Martschinke and Ray Chong Nee. 

Swimming for Gold follows Claire Carpenter (Peyton List), a 17-year-old elite swimmer who is reluctantly sent to Australia to coach a boys’ swim team. On arrival in Australia, Claire finds herself face to face with long-time rival Mikayla Michaels (Lauren Esposito), and the news that the camp will close if the team loses the next meet. To save the camp, Claire must overcome her fears, put aside her differences with Mikayla and rediscover her passion.

Swimming for Gold is directed by Hayley MacFarlane, written by Eric Bergemann and produced by Steve Jaggi and Spencer McLaren. The film also features cameos from Susie O’Neill, Australian swimming icon and winner of 8 Olympic medals; Ariarne Titmus, 2019 Swimmer of the Year; and member of the Australian Dolphins swim team, and Australian Paralympic swimmer Ellie Cole.  

Director Hayley MacFarlane comments “This film was a lot of fun to bring to life. The young cast members and I worked closely to develop relatable characters, who overcome struggles that many teenagers face. I’m really looking forward to audiences being able to enjoy this heart-warming and inspiring story of courage and friendship on the big screen.”  

The film was shot in Brisbane, and created job opportunities for 65 Queenslanders and is set to inject over $2 million into the state economy.

Swimming for Gold is supported by Screen Queensland and will be released theatrically by Athabasca Film, screening throughout the September school holidays in an exclusive deal with Event Cinemas and Village Cinemas. Swimming for Gold has been acquired by Universal Pictures for international release.