News
January 3, 2018
Sir John Kirwan is diving in to help save lives by taking part in the Westpac Chopper Swim challenge.
He will be joining others in a 20km swim on March 26 in aid of the Auckland and Coromandel Westpac Rescue Helicopter service.
The event starts from Matiatia Bay on Waiheke Island and finishes at Judges Bay, in Auckland.
But it is not for the faint-hearted.
The annual event, now in its third year, has been said to take the same effort as running two marathons.
"When I commit to something I tell a lot of people," Kirwan said.
"That way I can't get out of it."
The furthest distance he has swum in open waters is 13km between two islands off the coast of Sicily.
Not oblivious to the challenges of ocean swimming, the former All Black and Rugby World Cup winner will take it in his stride.
In Italy, Kirwan swam for a charity every year for a friend who broke his back.
While his belief in the importance of setting goals is one motivating factor, his other is centred on getting behind the rescue helicopters.
The Mission Bay resident said one of the first things he noticed returning from Italy five years ago, was how frequently they flew overhead.
"We all get caught up in the day to day of life, but it's quite sobering when you think that chopper will be life-changing for someone," he said.
Challenge founder and participant Olaf Adam said the sole purpose of the swim was to raise funds for the service.
More than $80,000 has been raised from previous challenges to date.
Now Adam and Kirwan are inviting Waiheke residents to join them.
Adam said the swim should only be attempted by experienced ocean swimmers, however, as safety was a priority.
"We talk to all swimmers about their background."
Swimmers can enter as individuals or as a team.
Support crew will also be needed.
"Each swimmer needs a capable kayaker, for supplies and navigation," Adam said.
Kayakers also provide a radio link to support boats, which are run by volunteers."
