The event has been held every 2-3 years since the first meeting in London in 1969 and brings together the World’s leading figures in Aquatic Medicine and Science.

The Bleasdale Memorial Lectures were inaugurated at the VIIIth FINA World Sports Medicine Congress in London in 1989. Dr Henry Noel Bleasdale, a chest physician from England, was the first Honorary Medial Advisor to the Amateur Swimming Association from 1950 until shortly before his death in 1985. He also served as Committee member and Secretary to the FINA Sports Medicine Committee from 1968 to 1984. He helped to establish the FINA World Sports Medicine Congresses and was, to a large part responsible, for the successful first Congress held in London in 1969. He was himself a former national swimming champion and provided medical care for the swimmers taking part in the London Olympics in 1948.

The invitation to present the Bleasdale Lecture is considered a great honour. It is extended by the incumbent FINA Sports Medicine Committee Chairperson. Typically, these are individuals who have contributed enormously to sport and sports medicine over the years and help share their experience and knowledge with the Congress participants.