Ryde Beach Lifeguards completed their annual cross-Solent swim on Saturday (12th July) – swimming from Gosport to Ryde to raise vital funds for the Beach Lifeguards in Ryde and Sandown.
The challenging swim began at 11:30 from Gosport with 10 swimmers taking to the water. Safety cover was provided by a team of kayakers, alongside 3 safety boats from Ventnor Bay Charters and Griffin Marine Services.
Swimmers made good progress across the Solent, reaching the halfway point in just over 50 minutes. However, strong currents within sight of the Beach Lifeguard HQ in Ryde slowed their progress dramatically, making the final stretch particularly demanding. The first swimmer, Harry, completed the crossing in 1 hour 50 minutes, with the rest close behind.
The swim covers more than 4 miles – more than double the distance of the well-known cross Solent swim from Hurst Point to Freshwater – making it a significant achievement for all involved.
All money raised went towards new equipment for the Beach Lifeguards.
Todd, Beach Manager, said:
“As always I am tremendously proud of my team for completing the swim this year. It was also great to be joined by a few swimmers from our friends at Ryde Swimming Club and West Whittering Lifeguards this year! The event wouldn’t be possible without the support from Ventnor Bay Charters and Griffin Marine Services and the kayakers, thank you.”
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Kat, Skipper at Ventnor Bay Charters, added:
“The Solent swim has been such an inspiration, it has really made me want to get out there and achieve something myself! Not everyone wakes up and decides to swim across the Solent. We are honoured to have helped the Beach Lifeguards with the swim, they are an inspiration to us all.”
Donations will help ensure Ryde and Sandown beaches continue to have dedicated lifeguard cover throughout the summer season.
Well done to all concerned.