Channel Swim

Shirley swimmer Chris Cole is still hoping to complete his solo channel swim this summer, despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shirley swimmer Chris Cole in training

Chris began his Odyssey ten years ago when he went to the Shirley Pool as a nervous adult beginner ” All I wanted to do was be able to swim without panicking. My kids had all learnt at Shirley and, as I was approaching 40, I thought it was time I learnt to swim”

With a little help from teachers and friends, Chris quickly progressed to the main pool and then the sea.

In 2019 he was a member of the Shirley Pool cross channel relay team that completed the challenge in 12 hours. Now Chris hopes to make the crossing on his own.

Swim England recognised his huge achievement at their annual awards ceremony.

This week Chris completed his six hour qualifying swim in the Solent to stay on target for the summer. “Fortunately I have been lucky enough to access a pool privately and now I can train in the sea. Hopefully we will get the go ahead in July or August.”

Here he was interviewed by the local Radio Station.

Families are being warned to be wary of the dangers of the sea.

Shirley Pool plans for re-opening