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Scotland swimmer swaps pool for charity challenge

Scotland swimmer swaps pool for charity challenge

Strathallan pupil Owen C has completed a run and cycle challenge of the distance between John O Groats and Lands End in aid of a men's mental health charity.

Owen C, who was selected for the Scottish Swimming Senior Bronze Squad over the summer, took on a mammoth land-based challenge in August as he ran and cycled 1940km in aid of ManKind Initiative, which helps support male victims of domestic abuse.

Owen said he was inspired to raise funds for the charity during lockdown, "I chose ManKind Initiative because I saw lots of news and support for the female victims of domestic abuse as it became worse through lockdown but I really didn’t hear any talk about men suffering from domestic abuse, so I wanted to raise awareness of this important charity."

Through a mixture of evening runs and early morning bicycle rides, Owen raised more than £275 for the charity.

When asked about how he felt to finish the challenge, he said, "It felt great to complete it as I worked really hard and put a lot of time into it while doing it gave me a really good fitness focus while I couldn’t swim but in all honesty, didn’t feel like exercise cause I was doing it for a really good cause. I would definitely do it again and would likely choose a different charity to support that doesn’t get much attention."

Owen is one of three Strathallan pupils selected to represent Scotland in swimming this year, with students Elise C and Evan D being selected for the Scottish Youth Development squad.

Excited to get back to training in Strathallan's own pool with experienced swim coach Elaine Johnston, who trained Duncan Scott and Scott McLay, Owen said, "After 5 and a half months of not being able to swim, it's been brilliant to get back to the pool and train with our squad again."

Those interested in donating to Owen's fundraising page can do so here.

Another student recently selected for a national team is Millie W, in Lower Sixth - who was chosen as the only Scottish representative to join GB Team 2020 in the International Mounted Games.


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