Chris Accomplishes the Great North Swim
A massive well done to Chris Fitzpatrick for completing his two-mile open water swim at Windermere’s Great North Swim!
The Great North Swim is the UK’s largest open water swim event, with thousands of participants tackling distances from 250m to 10km, in water temperatures as low as 14 ⁰C.
Back in January 2024, Chris struggled to swim a single length of a pool. This was when he decided to embark on a personal fitness journey. He experienced highs and lows along the way and despite doubts, he remained determined to push his limits and transform his health for the better.
From the beginning of 2025, Chris started challenging himself even more to prepare for the Great North Swim. Since then, he has swum 91 miles, cycled 902 miles, ran 100 miles and walked 231 miles.
That’s an astonishing total of 1,324 miles in just six months!
The big day approached on 15th June, and Chris powered through the two-miles in an impressive 1 hour and 18 minutes, placing 10th in his age and gender category!
Not only has Chris inspired us with his strength, grit, and determination, he has also raised £917 for our charity, and another £650 for the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund – a testament to his generosity and drive to make a massive difference.
These incredible efforts will go a long way to helping transform the lives of babies, children and young people across the North East and help us to provide life-changing services.
Thank you and congratulations Chris! We hope you’re as proud of yourself as we are of you – your resilience continues to amaze us and prove that transformation is possible in all walks of life.
We’re incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to see what you take on next!
