Sarchet swaps oceans for the pool

Sunday 12 July 2020

Guernsey’s very own ‘sea donkey’ will be encouraging islanders to make a splash for charity as part of the Skipton Swimarathon, after being named the fundraiser's official ambassador.

Adrian Sarchet, the island’s renowned long-distance swimmer will be swapping the sea for the swimming pool, advocating the benefits of swimming and inviting the public to sign up to the annual charity event.

Earlier this year, Adrian Sarchet became just the 21^st person ever to complete a gruelling marathon of seven open water swims including the Cook Strait, the Catalina Channel and the English Channel. 

Now he will be taking the plunge in the pool at Beau Sejour to help the event raise money for worthwhile local causes.

“Whilst pool swimming is very different to swimming in open waters the act of coming together through a challenge remains the same," said Mr Sarchet. "The activity of swimming has changed my life and now others can do the same, changing people’s lives for the better by joining in with this great event. Having travelled the world for so long, it will be a welcome change to promote swimming a little closer to home.” 

Pictured: Much of the fundraising will be taking place at Beau Sejour in October. 

Skipton Swimarathon Committee Chairman, Nick Guillemette, said: “Adrian is a fantastic choice for our ambassador role as there are few people as passionate about swimming as he is. We are delighted that he has chosen to support our event and hopefully we can convince him to dip his toes in the pool too! This year has undoubtedly presented its own challenges with the Covid-19 pandemic, but we have now received the official go ahead from the Guernsey Health Authorities and are confident that we can still provide support for our charities at a time when they so sorely need it.” 

This year the Committee has selected the Guernsey Alzheimer’s Association (GAA) as its main beneficiary, helping the charity to meet the increasing demand for its Sitters service that it offers to carers in the community  The charity provides information, advice, companionship and support for those caring for family members suffering with dementia. 

The Skipton Swimarathon takes place at some of the island’s high school 25m pools and at Beau Sejour from the 7 to 11 October. To register your team and book a lane slot visit www.swimarathon.org