This challenge is in Honour of Mercedes Gleitze. North Channel Challenge.

Mercedes was a prolific open water swimmer who carried out many long distance swims in unimaginable conditions. Creating numerous records along the way.

Mercedes made 8 attempts at this challenge swimming from Ireland to Scotland and the reverse but the cold conditions defeated her.  On one occasion she was only 1 mile from success!

She was also one of the first champions of Rolex wearing the new product Oyster Perpetual around her neck whilst swimming.

She also set up her own charity which she funded for homeless families.

An incredible lady of her time.

Born 1900

Died 1981

This is the lake that has been chosen to start our challenge. It is 200m Long and the progress you can see in the graph below. A far cry from what Mercedes had to endure but still nevertheless a challenge worthy of the name. (The daily Ripple Frogs are croaking in agreement!! Ribbit).

The Pink and Blue Bar Graph indicate progress!

The Challenge started on the 24th January 2024 and was completed on the 25th August 2024

Our two intrepid swimmers with commemorative trophies celebrating one of the UK's forgotten hero's

Mercedes Gleitze.