Did you know that more people have climbed Mt. Everest than swum the English Channel solo? Les Roches alumnus Chris Astill-Smith (2014) is more than aware of that fact, and of the immense challenge he plans to undertake. This August, Chris will be swimming alone across the English Channel to fundraise for children’s charity Dreams Come True. And as he prepares for this enormous physical and mental challenge, he will be keeping us posted on his progress — right here on our Les Roches Webzine!
As the co-founder of Nutristrength, an award-winning lifestyle nutrition brand, perhaps it’s no surprise that Chris would be drawn to such a test of athletic and mental endurance. Thinking about ways to keep fit, eat well and have the healthiest body possible is second nature for Chris. In the months leading up to his swim across the busiest shipping lane in the world, Chris will be busy considering these factors as he trains hard.
What does swimming across the English Channel involve?
- At least 21 miles (32 kilometers) of open-water swimming
- Sea temperatures of around 14 to 18 degrees Celsius
- Anywhere between 7 and 27 hours
- A swimsuit that doesn’t offer thermal protection or buoyancy (wetsuits are cheating!)
- Plenty of physical and mental training, and lots of determination!
But it’s not just the personal challenge of swimming the Channel that appeals to Chris — it’s the opportunity to give back to others. Chris has chosen to swim for Dreams Come True, a small UK charity that works to fulfill the dreams of children with life-limiting conditions. And Chris has set a fundraising goal to match the magnitude of his athletic endeavor: “Because of the nature of the beast, I want to raise a massive £25,000!”
Les Roches is proud to sponsor Chris as he dives into this great adventure for a worthy cause. Stay tuned each month for updates from Chris, and check out his fundraising page to lend your support!
Donate to Chris Astill-Smith: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=ChannelSoloChris
