I have successfully completed my world record attempt, beating the existing record by 7.5hrs in 33.5hrs.

I will be taking on my biggest challenge yet, to consecutively swim the 13 publicly accessible lakes in the Lake District, (UK) which equates to 70KM of swimming. To make it a bit more challenging, I will be attempting to break the current record of 41 hours, all in aid of Access Sport - more details here

Access Sport believe all young people should be able to experience the power of sport. However over the past few years the number of people on low incomes participating in sport has fallen nearly 50,000, causing a third of UK children being classified as obese or overweight, side-lining the poor and vulnerable. Your support makes a real difference in creating a level playing field, giving under-represented and at-risk young people regardless of ability, gender, background or ethnicity, the chance to enhance their life prospects through sport.

Disabled people are routinely excluded from mainstream swimming activity and disabled children are three times less likely to participate in swimming as non-disabled children. Due to poor experiences in their early years, disabled people often lack the confidence and skills to swim and be safe in and around water in later life. 

Access Sport’s new Inclusive Swimming offer will create an environment where disabled children (under 18) can learn how to swim and be safe in water. Swimming is an essential life skill that also supports many other areas of childhood development. In addition to its health and mental benefits, it contributes to self-esteem and confidence, improves concentration, sleep, and relaxation. It is an activity that families can engage in together and participants become part of a community of swimmers. Importantly, it also supports access to other water-based activities, such as canoeing, sailing or water skiing and other opportunities. 

One of the aims of the project is for all new inclusive activity to become fully embedded and sustainable in the local swimming organisations. The project will train, upskill, and empower swimming instructors to adopt and promote inclusive practices throughout their clubs/ organisations. Our team will also support each organisation to develop a sustainability plan that will consider any future resources required and key local partners, as well as embedding these offers within the club’s overall budgeting and fundraising, if applicable.