2017 English Channel swim

Sunday, February 24, 2013

New Zealand's Cook Strait

My next swim adventure will be in April.  I will attempt to swim Cook Strait between the North and South Islands of New Zealand a distance of 16 nautical miles. Swimming the strait is considered by many as one of the most difficult swims in the world due to unpredictable waters.  This crossing will be my fifth swim of the Oceans Seven Challenge.  I have not underestimated the degree of difficulty of this upcoming challenge.  I know what I will be facing...extreme currents, strong tidal flows, and aggressive marine life ( no swimmer has ever been attacked while attempting to swim across Cook Strait). I'm looking forward to this challenge.  My crew will consist of my brother David and his wife Jeannie, and nephew Chris....they did a fantastic job as my crew for my English Channel Swim in 2011.  One of the highlights of going to New Zealand will be meeting swimming legend Philip Rush (one of the greatest marathon swimmers of all time).  He completed a three-way crossing of the English Channel in a time of 28 hours and 21 minutes.   Philip is the coordinator of the Cook Strait Swim. There will be two boats and crew to safely monitor my swim.  Phil will be in the smaller boat guiding me.  The larger boat will have the navigational equipment, boat pilot and crew. It's going to be an exciting adventure.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Swim for your Heart, 2013

I would like to thank all the swimmers and supporters of the third annual global swim event "Valentine's Day..Swim for your Heart" to bring an awareness of heart disease and its prevention.  It was a success! Swimmers from over thirty countries participated in thought and action.   Together, we sent a strong message of unity in promoting this cause.  Thank you for supporting your local heart program or charity.

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Melinda Beyer: An inspiration to all.

Please take a moment to read the inspirational story of 34 year old Melinda Beyer.  She was born with a congenital heart defect, had 3 open heart surgeries, recently gave birth to a healthy baby boy AND she is helping to promote "Valentine's Day...Swim for your Heart" to bring an awareness of heart disease and prevention. Thank you.
http://www.swimforyourheartfeb14.com/Testimonials.html