A pair of local fundraisers are preparing to tackle a 24km swim along Finland’s Oulanka River to mark 10 years of the Isle of Wight Wave Project – with every penny raised staying on the Island to help local children.
On Saturday (19th July 2025), the pair will take on the remote challenge, swimming in pairs and carrying mandatory survival equipment in case they get lost in sections of forest known to be home to wolves and bears. They aim to complete the 24km distance in around 8 hours.
The Wave Project has supported more than 600 local children since 2015, offering fully funded surf therapy sessions that help young people build confidence, resilience and a new love for the sea. The project also runs one of the UK’s few Adaptive Surfing Hubs, giving people with disabilities safe access to the water.
One of the swimmers has said:
“We hope this challenge reflects the bravery shown by the children who step out of their comfort zone to try surf therapy for the first time.
“Thank you for your support over the last 10 years – let’s make it another 10 and beyond!”
The fundraising target for the Finland swim is £1,000, with all money staying on the Isle of Wight to directly support local surf therapy sessions.
To find out more about the Wave Project and how to donate, click here.
