When I think about my journey in swimming; it starts with early Sunday morning drives through the South Wales valleys to Maindee pool in Newport where I learnt to swim. The showers were cold, some of the instructors were a bit scary and the 'big pool' (50m) lengths seemed to go on forever but I loved it. Loved the fact that I was better than crap at something. I loved football, rugby etc but had zero natural ability. I was ok at swimming. This gave me a new found confidence. Sadly, after captaining the local swimming club, competing at county level and playing water polo, I fell out of love with the sport and hung up my goggles up at the tender age 14. Fast forward 43 years and I decided to give it another go. First time back, I struggled with 10 lengths (250m), how on earth had I swum endless laps as a kid? By incrementally building up my endurance I managed to swim a 6.5k open water event in 2024 raising money for the excellent charity Level Water. Level Water use the power of swimming to improve lives for children with disabilities. I know the confidence and self belief swimming can give and I want to help as many children as possible have the opportunity to enjoy this wonderful recreation.

So, in September 2025, I am swimming 10km down the River Dart. This is the equivalent to swimming a marathon and will be my longest distance to date.

Whilst doing this I am raising money so said children with disabilities can enjoy the water as much as I do.

Just £15 can change a life. Please support me in this epic challenge by donating.

Everyone should have the opportunity to learn to swim and fall in love with the water.

Shaun