So here it is 2026 - and my first BIG solo swim challenge. This year I’m taking on many events including the level water 24hr swim challenge at shepperton lake. All in aid of prepping for a two-way classic crossing of lake Geneva this coming August! 😵‍💫😊 I’m excited but also petrified! After completing a 28hr relay across the length of Geneva last year (71km) I wanted a reason to go back and conquer a personal swim challenge. In gearing up for this, I’ve entered this 24hr challenge with few other bonkers swimmers to prep and get some longer swims in whilst fundraising for an incredible charity that provides swimming lessons all over the UK to the young and disabled.

Some of you may know, historically I was never really a swimmer. That all changed when I was diagnosed with a long term foot condition which gave me such pain I had to stop playing hockey; a sport I love! And also reduce all high impact activities. I have now been diagnosed with a long term arthritis condition which has flipped my world but I’m eager to stay fit and healthy.

So swimming was where I aimed my sights. I taught myself to swim after my third son turned 3- that’s 8years ago. Since then I have conquered lake consiton (5.2mes solo), lake Ullswater (7.5 miles), the English channel as a relay team and also lake Geneva(71km) in 2025. I must say I have a love hate relationship with swimming but whilst this body will allow me to do and stay fit and gradually setting my sights higher…..and try to forget I always feel like a ‘swimming imposter’

24 Hours I’ll Never Forget…..Shepperton here we come!

Pleas give whatever you can for such a great cause!