76 swimmers will take on the annual Cross Solent Swim later this month, each with their own personal story of courage, determination and resilience.
West Wight Sports and Community Centre’s flagship fundraising event returns on Saturday 25th July, when participants will swim across the Solent in support of the charity that operates the Freshwater-based facility.
While every swimmer has their own reason for accepting the challenge, organisers say this year’s event is about far more than completing the crossing, with many participants overcoming personal adversity while raising money for an important community cause.
Among those taking part are West Wight Swimming Club coaches Lottie James, Bethany Williams and Jack Pickford, who will be leading by example after inspiring the next generation of swimmers in the pool.
One of the most inspiring stories belongs to brothers Michael and Clive Bullock, who will complete the swim together while raising funds for both West Wight Sports and Community Centre and prostate cancer support.
Michael, 76, has scoliosis, which has left him with a significant stoop and, for many years, made both breaststroke and front crawl difficult. With encouragement and support, together with guidance received during West Wight’s weekly Special Care swimming sessions, he has developed into a confident – if, in his own words, “ungainly” – backstroke swimmer.
His younger brother Clive, 71, is a GB international age-group triathlete. However, rather than chasing a fast crossing time, he will slow his pace to ensure the pair complete the Solent Swim side by side.
Adding further significance to their challenge, both brothers are currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. They have pledged to donate a share of any money raised above their fundraising target to prostate cancer support, helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Their story is one of resilience, determination and family – qualities organisers say perfectly capture the spirit of the Solent Swim.
“Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference to the work we do. By supporting our swimmers, you’ll be helping West Wight Sports and Community Centre continue to provide vital facilities and activities for the local community.
“One of the main focusses of our work remains teaching children to swim – which is why the community built the pool 50 years ago. It’s important to us that we keep swimming lessons affordable to local families and, if necessary, subsidised for those in need.”
The local community is being encouraged to head to Colwell Bay on the morning of Saturday 25th July to cheer the swimmers home. The first participants are expected to arrive on the beach from around 08:00, with organisers saying support from the shoreline provides a welcome boost during the final stages of the crossing.
Anyone wishing to support Michael and Clive, or any of this year’s Solent Swim participants, can donate via the event’s TotalGiving fundraising page.
