A Caloundra swimmer who has pushed through the pain barrier for charity on several occasions is preparing to take on another unique test for a good cause.
Kings Beach’s Brendan Neil will attempt a 24-hour solo ocean swim from Noosa Main Beach on April 15, to raise more awareness and funds for special schools around the region.
Mr Neil said via his gofundme page that he would try to swim 2km on the hour, every hour, for 24 hours.
“I’m getting way out of my comfort zone for just 24 hours,” the 52-year-old said.
“It’s symbolic of the daily struggles and challenges these kids and families face every single day. Many of them (parents) live in relative isolation, quietly creating the best life for their children.
“The special schools are a vital part of our community providing a happy, safe, supportive place to nurture the development of these kids. Twenty-four hours of discomfort, fatigue and some fear for me is nothing compared to their daily struggles.”
Mr Neil has been involved in the Island Charity Swim, a 10km ocean swim supporting local special schools, for 15 years. This year’s edition will be held on May 13.
He has spent the past few years promoting the event and tackling challenges to further help children with special needs.
“Since 2018, I’ve created a series of personal endurance challenges to raise more awareness and support for the awesome kids and families of the special schools,” he said.
“Your donations are used by the schools to buy learning equipment, resources and support major projects.”
Mr Neil did 10 laps of the Island Charity Swim course (110km) in 10 days in 2018. He ran from Noosa to Mooloolaba and back (72km), with an island swim in between (10km) in 2019.
He also swam from Caloundra to Noosa over two days (64km) and added two laps of the island swim course (20km) in 2021.
Mr Neil will start his new quest at 7am and swim 1km offshore before returning to land, doing the same thing again at 8am and repeating for 24 hours.
“To be honest, I’m pretty scared,” he said.
“Physical fatigue, lasting the distance and swimming solo through the night will challenge me.”
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor with your name and suburb at Sunshine Coast News via: news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au
