LFE’s Business Development Manager Paul Urwin has completed the Alcatraz Swim.
Urwin set himself the challenge of a mile and a half swim through the cold and treacherous waters of San Francisco Bay to raise funds for for North East charity If U Care Share Foundation.
And yesterday at around 3.10pm UK time yesterday he achieved his goal finishing the swim in around 40 minutes.
The swim was made famous during the period in which Alcatraz operated as a federal prison (1934–1963) – proving a major deterrent to escape.
Strong currents and the cold water of the Bay make this a far from straight forward assignment for swimmers, however Urwin admits that they were the last thing on his mind when he started the swim.
“Great White Sharks have been known to enter the Bay from time to time, especially during this period of the year,” said Urwin.
“Prior to the swim a few people had been trying to wind me up about the possibility of coming face to face with one. In the main I’ve laughed it off but I could definitely hear the Jaws music in playing my head as was about to get underway!”
“The swim was tough but I managed to get through it in 41 minutes. It was an absolutely fantastic experience and one that I will remember forever.”
Urwin has managed to reach close to £600 through this fundraising effort so far but there is still time to sponsor him belatedly. So if you wish to make a donation please visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/alcatrazswim
