SWIMMING THE ENGLISH CHANNEL
Over the course of the previous 5 years (2015 – 2020) an intricate plan was mapped out for Craig’s attempt at a 2020 English Channel solo crossing.
In 2017 Craig started his intensive and committed preparation to achieve such a feat.
Australian marathon swimmer Des Renford had made a huge impression on Craig Clarke’s early swimming years in the 1970’s.
Ever since then Craig has held a dream of one day swimming the English Channel.
COVID-19 STRIKES
The timing of COVID-19 has impacted on Craig’s dream which would have seen him swimming the English Channel this week!
But instead of seeing his dream slip by the wayside, in true Aussie spirit, Craig took advantage of his unique training preparation.
He developed the plan for the 36km “Coals to Newcastle” ocean swim.
This swim in his home town at Newcastle, NSW Australia.
A swim leg that has never been attempted nor achieved before.
COALS TO NEWCASTLE
The heritage of this course dates back over 100 years.
With coal ships loading from the Catherine Hill Bay jetty (swim starting point) and transporting coal into Newcastle Harbour past Nobbys Lighthouse (finish point for the swim).
It also has a significant personal element with being in Craig’s home town.
Also with his ongoing 38 year + career in coal mining.
As well as being a long serving member and competitor of Swansea Belmont Surf Life Saving Club.
SAVE THE DATE – 22ND AUGUST 2020
This swim will happen on the first suitable conditions day from 22nd August 2020 and takes in as many of the challenges of the English Channel as possible.
Including the one way distance, sea and air temperature, use of a support boat as well as the strict guidelines on waist to crotch swimwear only.
So keep your eye out for Craig on any new upcoming Australian National News Broadcasts.
NORTH STORM® DRY BAG
We are also proud to mention that during Craig’s intensive training he has been relying on his North Storm® 20 Litre dry bag.
He is using our dry bag to house his nutrition, towel and clothes.
Craig will also be using his North Storm® dry bag, in the ocean with his kayak paddler and in the support boat during the “Coals to Newcastle’ swim.
My North Storm Dry Bag keeps everything dry and secure even when we are hit by waves.’ Craig Clarke
HELP CRAIG REACH HIS GOAL - DONATE TO BEYOND BLUE
Craig would like to dedicate this swim as a fundraising event for the Beyond Blue charity.
For both his own personal reasons and all the ways that Covid-19 has impacted on our normal lives.
Craig wants to make a difference and is inspired by the work that Beyond Blue does.
In support of this phenomenal marathon swim – support a fellow Australian and click the link below to help Craig reach his goal!
BEYOND BLUE – EVERYDAY HERO – COALS TO NEWCASTLE SWIM
