So near yet so far - valiant TNT swimmers beaten by the elements
The brave TNT ‘shore-to-shore we can’ Channel swimmers were just four miles from the French coast when appalling conditions forced the abandonment of the swim late this afternoon (13 September).
TNT’s Magnificent Seven of Daniel Vines, Owen Maybank, Simon Bradbury, Heather Mather, Jon Straw, Julian Crabtree and Steve Foster had already swum 29 miles when English Channel Swimming officials refused to take them any further as atrocious weather rendered the bid both futile and dangerous.
The team had made remarkable progress covering more than the actual 23-mile stretch between Folkestone and Cap Griz Nez beach near , due to having to go with the currents and flows and avoid busy shipping lanes.
They suffered unbelievable hardships throughout the day with sea sickness rife throughout the team as their boat was battered by five foot waves, and gusting winds on ‘choppy’ seas.
Peter Bakker CEO of TNT NV sent personal messages of encouragement and consolation both during and at the conclusion of the courageous attempt describing the attempt as ‘unbelievably gripping stuff’ and expressing his admiration for the swimmers.
Tom Bell, Regional Managing Director for TNT Express Services & was on hand to greet the swimmers had they made it to French soil. He instead, drove back to Folkestone to express his pride at the gallant attempt and personally congratulate the team for their endeavours.
The children’s charity Wooden Spoon offered their gratitude to the swimmers and said they had every reason to be ‘incredibly proud’ having more than swum the 23-mile distance on the day.
The hope now, is that everyone who has been kind enough to make a donation or pledge support to the swim will see fit to honour that commitment and enable Daniel, Owen, Simon, Heather, Jon, Julian and Steve to still give well over £16,000 to Wooden Spoon to help youngsters who are disadvantaged mentally, physically and socially.
