This Summer (some time between 12th and 19th July depending on tide and weather) I will be participating in a channel relay swim as a member of the Allianz relay team in support of Barnado's. “But Why?” I hear you ask…

Although I have always been a keen swimmer I didn’t start swimming regularity until 2010 when I participated in the 5km swimathon as part of another Allianz relay team. I found swimming to be great exercise, a good way to relax and switch off my mind and very gentle on the joints which at my age is becoming a more important consideration.

For some reason I have always found the thought of a channel swim alluring so was quick to jump at the opportunity to participate with 6 of my colleagues in a relay swim. However, I quickly found out that this was far from being a glamorous adventure. The channel swim will require us to deal with cold water, tidal currents, choppy water, sea sickness, jelly fish, swimming at night, busy shipping lanes and “detritus”.

Even the training is quite literally putting me out of my comfort zone. It includes open water swimming sessions in lakes, rivers and the sea in water temperatures as low as 7.9°C! (regardless of the weather!). I have had swimming lessons to make sure that my swimming technique is up to scratch and in the pool I have done interval training sessions, drills and countless lengths to make sure that I am prepared.

At 54 years old I am the old man of the team but that makes me even more proud to be part of this event and to be putting myself through the training regime and the event itself. It is a real personal challenge that will test my determination and resilience.

It would mean a great deal to me if you would dip your hand into your pocket and sponsor me as much as you can afford to support both me and the Barnado's charity which is doing great work for children around the country.

Thank you.

Nick