i made my first attempt at swimming the english channel a few weeks ago. unfortunately i was unsuccesful, being pulled from the water after almost 15 hours and with france within sight. the tides had turned and were against me, carrying me sideways for the last few hours. after training for over a year, to get so close and fail was devastating, but i will be back in 2011 for another go. next time i will be faster and stronger and i will make it!

playdreamer. not wearing a wetsuit is to keep the swim in line with matthew webbs first ever swim back in 1875, wearing just a costume. it is part of the challenge, you versus the elements. yes its cold, its also dirty and rough and theres ferries and tankers and jellyfish, and strong tides that wash you up and down the channel. thats the challenge. without a support boat and the help of one of the Channel swimming associations, dont even bother