I'm thrilled to say that I managed the swim in 76 minutes, so all the planning and training was worthwhile. It was an amazing experience, with some real highs and lows. The text below (written before the event) gives a bit more information about it, and why I undertook it.
I'd also like to use this page to give particular thanks to NW Brown Financial Services, who became my primary sponsor during the fundraising, and to the Rotary Clubs of Cambridge and Rutherford Cambridge for their collective support.
The Hellespont is the crossroads from Europe to Asia, and arguably the most iconic swim in the world. For one day a year, the Turkish Government closes it to shipping for one and a half hours, and hundreds take part in a race across a distance of 4.5 km, following in the footsteps of Leander and Byron.
This year I have secured a place, and hope to raise as much money as possible to support water projects in the developing world. For me, the swim is no easy undertaking, as I'll be doing breaststroke and it will be a real challenge to complete it in time (and if you don't, I believe the Turkish Lifeguards pick you out of the water!).
All of us take water totally for granted - but imagine waking up thirsty in the night with nothing to drink, or trudging miles in the hot sun to collect a bucket of muddy water that might make you ill rather than better. Millions of people have to do this every day, many of them young children, and Christian Aid water projects can change their lives, giving them improved health and opening up life chances by freeing their time for education.
I'm taking on this challenge in memory of my father, a kind and generous man who always went the extra mile to help others. I hope he would have approved!
Do please consider sponsoring me. I promise that even if I don't finish in the time I wll have done my very best, and will be encouraged to keep going by thinking of everyone who has shown such support.
SINCE STARTING THIS PAGE I HAVE HAD SOME BRILLIANT NEWS - CHRISTIAN AID HAS AN ARRANGEMENT THAT IF I REACH THE TARGET EVERY £1 RAISED FOR THIS WATER PROJECT WILL BE MATCHED BY £3 FROM THE EU! SO YOUR DONATIONS WILL WORK MUCH HARDER!
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Christian Aid gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
