Iona's West Wight Swim Challenge

Isle of Wight Radio’s Iona Stewart-Richardson is taking on a fundraising challenge

I will be representing Isle of Wight Radio when I take part in the West Wight Solent Swim, for the event’s tenth anniversary. Not only to raise money for an excellent Island charity but also as a personal fitness challenge. 

The swim is from Hurst Pier Point Castle to Colwell Bay which is 1.3 miles. Not that far, you may think... But when wrestling with the elements of the Solent it is not as easy as it sounds.

Why would I want to do this?

I am raising money for the West Wight Sports and Community Centre in Freshwater - which is so much more than just a sports centre.

It promotes and provides sports and activities for the local community to support Islander’s mental health and wellbeing. Volunteers provide everything from cooking to climbing.

All the money raised means it can continue to provide those services which have become so crucial to the community and ensure the upkeep of its facilities such as the swimming pool.

The Centre has also remained open throughout the pandemic to support vulnerable Islanders by providing hot meals, picking up prescriptions and mental health support.

It's My ‘Personal Challenge’

I signed up to the charity’s biggest fundraiser of the year slightly last minute (with a month to train), however, I am very fond of the sea and am always someone who says YES. Since moving to the Island have shamelessly taken advantage of its stunning coastline and encourage others to do the same.

The fundraiser was always on my ‘bucket list’ of things to do whilst I’m here. I am thrilled that it is still going ahead - and that I am taking part in the tenth year of the event.

How Can You Sponsor Me?

Please sponsor me at https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/ionasolentswim