Ryde Beach Lifeguards Embark On Annual Cross-Solent Fundraising Swim

Saturday (12 July) saw Ryde Beach Lifeguards embark upon their annual cross-Solent swim, from Gosport to Ryde, raising money for the Beach Lifeguards in Ryde & Sandown. 

The swim started at 11:30am from Gosport, with ten swimmers taking to the water.

Safety cover was provided by kayakers, alongside three safety boats provided by Ventnor Bay Charters & Griffin Marine Services.

The swimmers made good progress across The Solent, reaching the half way in just over 50 minutes.

This momentum carried on, until they hit strong currents within eye sight of the Beach Lifeguard HQ in Ryde which slowed the swimmers progress dramatically, making the last stretch of the swim really challenging.

That said, the first swimmer (Harry) completed the swim in 1 hour 50 minutes, with the rest following close behind. 

In total the swim is over four miles, more than double the distance of the cross Solent swim held from Hurst Point to Freshwater.

Todd Miller, Beach Manager, said:

“As always I am tremendously proud of my team for completing the swim this year.

"It was also great to be joined by a few swimmers from our friends at Ryde Swimming Club and West Whittering Lifeguards this year.

"The event wouldn’t be possible without the support from Ventnor Bay Charters and Griffin Marine Services and the kayakers, thank you!"