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Megan, Year 10, alongside her extraordinary relay teammates from the Watford Ocean Warriors, conquered an awe-inspiring challenge this week; swimming the English Channel with unwavering determination, all for a noble cause – Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care.
On Monday the 2nd of October, these young heroes embarked on their epic journey from Dover at 2.15am. Battling the elements and dodging the Jellyfish, they defied the odds and clocked in at an astonishing time of 9 hours, 40 minutes, and 29 seconds – a testament to their unwavering spirit and endurance – as they reached Cap Gris-Nez.
A huge congratulations to Will, Sam, Megan, Barney, Prisha, and Felipe who have so far raised a staggering sum of over £12,000 (and counting)!
Hear from Megan as she reflects on this incredible achievement.
When did you first become interested in open water swimming?
I first became interested in lockdown when all the swimming pools were closed. I was really missing swimming but then discovered Denham lake. It was something different, exciting and also refreshing as the summer of 2020 was really warm. Me and my friend would go down before school and do a couple of laps each week.
What is it about open water swimming that you enjoy the most?
At first it was something new and exciting to do but as I did it more often I realised it made me happy and I had a great sense of accomplishment once I had finished. It also allowed me to be in the present moment and is quite mindful when it is just you and the water.
What swimming club are you a part of and when did you join?
I’ve been swimming for as long as I can remember and joined Watford Swimming Club when I was 8 years old.
When did you first hear about this opportunity to cross the channel?
I first heard about this challenge around March time and thought I’d give it a go.
I don’t think I fully understood what I was getting myself into but I don’t regret it for one second!
It’s been a patient wait over the last week or so in the build up to the big day itself, how did you feel when you finally got the go-ahead to take on the challenge?
I was ready and excited to get going. Although slightly apprehensive about what the water was going to be like.
Can you tell me about some of the highs and lows of the swim itself?
The highs were riding on the waves, when the sun was coming up and cheering my teammates on. However, it was hard waiting for my turn as I was getting more nervous but also just wanted to get going. When I saw my first jellyfish it was a bit nerve racking but it just floated past me.
Megan mid-swim as the team were about halfway through the challenge.
How did you and the team feel when you made it to the end of the last swim, and made it to the other side?
The atmosphere was amazing. We were all cheering Felipe on, who was the youngest in the team. We were all completely shocked by the time and there was a lot of excitement and taking photos on the boat.
I’m definitely missing the drive to train and am going to miss spending time with my teammates, but we have formed a lifetime friendship.
Well done Megan, everyone at RMS is proud of you!