04/11/2023
So disappointed for Neil Papenfus who has been training for this all year – but he is determined to try again in 2024 and we wish him the very best!
In the meantime, you can read all about this test of physical endurance by the GM of Pacific Towing to swim the English Channel for PNG charity Cheshire disAbility Services in the latest issue of PNG Air Magazine.
Link to the article "PNG's Iceman" here: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/233781833/22/
It’s with great disappointment that PacTow’s GM was unable to attempt his English Channel fundraising swim for Cheshire DisAbility Services in October as planned.
Dangerous weather conditions and unfavourable currents led to the cancellation of not just Neil’s swim but that of several other swimmers. He even extended his stay in the UK by 10 days in the hope that conditions would improve but they did not.
However, Neil remains committed to swimming the English Channel and has rescheduled his swim to June 2024.
Although he is obviously disappointed that he was unable to swim the Channel this year, the whole reason for his swim was to raise funds (and awareness) for the vital work that (Cheshire DisAbility Services) does to support people living with disabilities.
To date, more than 330,000 Kina (cash, goods, and services) has been pledged by many generous donors.
Neil is heartened and humbled by the good-heartedness of donors who have confirmed that Cheshire DisAbility Services can still use the funds promised even though his swim has been rescheduled.
Once again, Neil thanks everyone for supporting his fundraising efforts for Cheshire DisAbility Services.
(Image of Neil preparing his body for the cold English channel conditions)
