Swimmer completes challenge to cross 10 lakes
Swimmer finishes two-year challenge to swim across 10 lakes and raise awareness of son's condition.
An open-water swimmer, Neil Gilson of Ilfracombe, Devon, has successfully concluded a two-year endeavor to traverse Switzerland's 10 largest lakes.
Gilson marked the completion of this demanding 10-lake challenge by swimming across Lake Geneva in slightly over 22 hours, concluding his feat on Wednesday morning. He described the experience, stating, "It's a long swim, 10 hours of darkness and lots of pain."
Upon finishing, Gilson admitted to feeling "a little bit broken, lots of little niggles and sore bits, but really pleased that I've managed to get it done."
Throughout the challenge, strict rules were observed: he received sustenance via food and drink delivered in a cup on a pole and was prohibited from making contact with the support boat.
He described the finish as "amazing" due to his children joining him as he crossed the line.
Gilson undertook this challenge to generate funds for Pans Panda UK, an organization supporting a pediatric autoimmune disorder that has affected one of his children. He also raised money for The Brain Charity.
Reflecting on the journey, Gilson acknowledged that the challenge "didn't all go to plan," recalling an instance where he fell asleep while in the water. However, the anticipation of 25 friends and family awaiting him at the Lake Geneva finish line motivated him to persevere.
He remarked, "It's been a long two years," as he completed all 10 swims, collectively covering 233 miles (375km).
The Lake Geneva Swimming Association oversaw and guided all of Gilson's swims. Guinness World Records is currently in the process of verifying whether his achievement constitutes a world first.