SWIM THE AVON
- World Record Attempt -
SWIM THE RIVER AVON.
47 MILES.
20 HOURS.
- Saturday 17th July 2021 -
THE CHALLENGE
Saturday 17th July 2021, Craig Openshaw from Worcestershire is attempting an un-official World Record Swim of the entire navigable length of the Warwickshire River Avon, UK & raising vital money for Cancer Research UK.
This epic challenge will make Craig the very first person to swim 47.1miles; the entire length of the navigable Warwickshire River Avon from Alveston above Stratford-upon-Avon to Tewkesbury in a mind blowing 20 hours.
RAISING MONEY FOR CANCER RESEARCH
"More Than Just A Swim! It's Personal"
We are delighted to be raising money for Cancer Research UK.
All Team Swim The Avon members are fathers & hope for a better future for our children. One where cancer affects fewer people.
Tragically we've all lost family members, friends & loved ones to this brutal disease. That's why we want to help make a positive change.
Cancer won't disappear in our lifetimes but we feel it our personal responsibility to help those that could do so much good work to provide better outcomes & treatment for those affected.
MEET OUR SWIMMER
"Craig Openshaw"
As a busy working Dad; the toils of everyday life often mean there's little time for personal achievements.
Craig"felt a big calling & responsibility to help Cancer Research UK by taking on a unique fundraising challenge, specifically one that seriously tested me both physically & mentally."
And so the idea was born; to raise money through undertaking an epic super human challenge of endurance. One that would push him to his limits but most importantly help a charity close to his heart.
20+ years ago Craig was a competitive amateur junior swimmer, reaching National Swimming Events. He has however never swum in open water, let alone contemplated swimming 47.1 miles in just 20 hours.
HOW TOUGH IS TOUGH?
Open water swimming for 20 hours over 40+ miles.
47.1 MILES
Nearly same as running 2 marathons back-to-back
3032 LENGTHS
of a standard 25m swimming pool
75.8KM
Close to walking 100,000 steps in 20 hours
2 CHANNEL SWIMS
Swim to France & back in just 20 hours
OUR GOAL
CANCER RESEARCH UK
We'd love to raise £4,700 - That's £100 for each of the 47 miles Craig swims
We're proud to raise money to help a truly worthy cause. Sadly Cancer ruthlessly affects most of us at some point in our lives.
All donations are genuinely & warmly welcomed especially in light of the difficult financial circumstances Covid-19 has caused for many.
Thank you very much for your support... Craig, Strings, Phil, George & Bob.
THE ROUTE
"47.1 Miles. From Stratford-upon-Avon to Tewkesbury."
The Warwickshire River Avon is navigable over 47 miles, with 17 locks along its course, from Alveston weir above Stratford-upon-Avon, through Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire to where it joins the River Severn at Tewkesbury.
OUR SPONSORS
We're so grateful to all support received that will make the Swim the Avon challenge possible.
JOANNA JAMES LTD
Digital Construction Data including Architectural CGIs, 3D Models and OS Plans for Architects, Planners and developers of the built environment.
SINGLE FIN SURF CO
Organic premium surf apparel that is sustainable, responsible, plastic free. Simple yet classic designs Inspired by the sea.
LEIBSTRING LTD
Exceptional garden rooms & offices for the Cotswolds. RIBA Architect Designed.
Would you like to join our growing family of sponsors? Get in touch today.
SWIM THE AVON TEAM
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Our team is special because each one of us knows that they can completely rely on one another to always be there when they most need it.
Craig is undoubtedly the focal point but without the vital support from the rest of the team completion of this epic challenge would be impossible.
CRAIG
"Web Toe"
Probably the only man crazy enough to think swimming 47.1 miles in 20 hours is a good idea! ...and yes he does have webbed toes!
Swimmer
STRINGS
"The Seal"
Talks a good game, swims atrociously despite being a qualified lifeguard.
Crew / PR & Media
GEORGE
"Avatar"
Surfer with a good eye for detail. Brings muscle to an operation otherwise desperately lacking.
Crew / Logisitics
BOB
"Otter Spotter"
Our elder statesman with a much needed sensible head. Knows the River like the back of his hand.
Crew / Support Driver
PHIL
"Flipper"
A colossal specimen of a man. His size 17 feet will be invaluable for swim support. Has a unique ability to fix anything....including broken swimmers!
Crew / Logistics
