On Saturday (12th July) Ryde Beach Lifeguards embarked on their annual cross solent swim, from Gosport to Ryde, in aid of raising money for the Beach Lifeguards in Ryde and Sandown.
The swim started at 11:30am from Gosport, with ten swimmers taking to the water.
Safety cover was provided by kayakers, alongside three safety boats provided by Ventnor Bay Charters and Griffin Marine Services.
The swimmers made good progress across The Solent, reaching the half way in just over 50 minutes.
This momentum carried on, until they hit strong currents within eye sight of the Beach Lifeguard HQ in Ryde which slowed the swimmers progress dramatically, making the last stretch of the swim really challenging.
That said, the first swimmer (Harry) completed the swim in one hour 50 minutes, with the rest following close behind.
In total the swim is over four miles, more than double the distance of the cross Solent swim held from Hurst Point to Freshwater, so not for the faint hearted and a great achievement for all involved.
All money raised from the event, will be put towards equipment for the Beach Lifeguards (Registered Charity 1174631).
Beach Manager, Todd Miller, 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!”
Kat, the Skipper for Ventnor Bay Charters, said,
“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!”
News shared by Todd on behalf of Ryde and Sandown Beach Lifeguards. Ed
