Ex-rugby player tackles English Channel (From Haringey Independent)

Ex-rugby player tackles English Channel

9:04am Thursday 2nd July 2009 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

AN ex-rugby player donned his Speedos on Monday for his attempt to swim the English Channel to help raise money for a children's charity.

Crouch End resident Joe Labuschagne who now teaches PE at Hall School, in Hampstead, agreed to do the solo swim to fulfill one of his life's ambitions and test his physical and mental strength.

The 37-year-old also wanted to raise money for the The Adolescent and Children's Trust (TACT) which supports and campaigns on behalf of adopted or fostered young people.

Following strict Channel Swimming Association rules, Joe started his swim with no artificial aids with the exception of the use of goggles, speedos and grease to help with the Channels typical temperature of 13˚C to 17˚C.

But seven miles into the gruelling 22-mile journey, three hours and twenty minutes of flat-out swimming, the big-hearted teacher was forced to pull out due to injury.

Mr Labuschangne, of Quernmore Road, said “I have always wanted to swim the English Channel as it is seen as one of those ultimate challenges. A fellow triathlete had said that everyone could run a marathon, everyone could do an ironman, but just a few attempt the Channel.

"My journey to this point has been an amazing one. I have conquered fears. I have made friends and I have learned a lot about myself."

He added: "I will be back as the Channel won't get the best of me."

Mr Labuschagne had been dedictated to training for the challenge over 21 hours a week since 2007. The Trust's chief executive Kevin Williams said he was an "inspiration" and has raised £4,800 for the charity.

To help Joe Labuschagne meet his £5,000 target and to support The Adoloscent and Children's Trust visit http://www.justgiving.com/joelabuschagne2009/