After four previous attempts were called off because of poor weather conditions, our incredible YMM Channel Swim Relay Team finally completed their challenge this week, swimming the English Channel in 12 hours and 2 minutes.
The original team was Billy, Rachael, Daisy and Katie. Sadly, Katie was diagnosed with glandular fever and, after medical advice, it was clear that it would not be safe for her to take on such a demanding challenge. It was a huge disappointment for Katie, who had trained hard and prepared for the swim alongside the rest of the team.
With the swim finally able to go ahead, Claire from Ware Swimming Club stepped in to take Katie’s place, joining Billy, Rachael and Daisy for the challenge.
The team set off at 5.30am, taking turns in the water throughout the day. After more than 12 hours of swimming, they finally reached the French coast and completed the challenge together.
It has been a long journey to get to the start line. Four previous attempts had been cancelled because of poor weather conditions, meaning the team had to keep training and waiting for another safe opportunity to swim. When the fifth attempt finally went ahead, they made every minute count.
We want to say a huge thank you to Katie for everything she put into the challenge and for being part of the team throughout the months of training and preparation. We are so sorry she wasn’t able to take on the swim herself, but her health had to come first.
We also want to say a very special thank you to Claire from Ware Swimming Club for stepping in and taking on the challenge, and to Billy, Rachael and Daisy for their incredible commitment, determination and support throughout the journey.
We’re incredibly proud of all five swimmers and grateful for the support they have given YMM.
The team is still raising money for YMM, so if you would like to support their efforts and help us continue providing free one-to-one mentoring for young people in schools, you can still donate using the link below.