Businessmen successfully swim 37km round Gozo for charity

by Gozo News · October 31, 2011

Two businessmen successfully swim 37km round Gozo and well on their way to raising €37,000 for the Malta Guide Dog Foundation

The men who swam around Gozo to raise much-needed funds for the Malta Guide Dog Foundation have successfully completed their mission.

Simon Zammit, 46, and Sammy Attard, 45, determinedly began their adventure at 7am on Saturday, the 22nd of October, launching themselves into the cold waters at Mgarr Harbour, Gozo, for their long-distance dip. The conditions on the day were pretty treacherous, with gale force winds of between three and five making things much harder for them as the swim progressed.

“The sea was rough for more than 75% of the 37km stretch,” explains Mr Zammit, who is nevertheless thrilled to have completed the endeavour. “The conditions made it harder for us; the water was very cold, especially towards the end of the day, but it was well worth it.”

Thankfully the duo was complemented by a great support team, including both of their wives aboard an accompanying boat, who helped them to keep going by timing the swim and telling them when to stop for a quick bite to eat.

Mr Zammit and Mr Attard planned to raise at least €37,000 for the Malta Guide Dog Foundation, a charity launched locally five years ago. They are now about 80% into that figure, and are still encouraging people to donate towards the worthy cause.

“There are many visually-impaired people currently waiting for a guide dog, but it costs around €14,000 to train and supply each animal,” says Mr Attard. “If we manage to raise the €37,000, we’ll be able to provide enough to help three people, which would be great. It’s the final push now, and donations that can be made will make a huge difference to us reaching our target.”

On track with the fundraising aspect, the duo were also on track during the swim, making it back to Mgarr just shortly after their scheduled arrival time.

“We hoped to make it in 11 hours, but it took just over 12,” adds Mr Zammit. “The final leg was the hardest as we were exhausted, but it felt fantastic to arrive to a crowd of supporters – including some visually-impaired people and their guide dogs, family and friends. We’re very pleased to have completed our challenge, and look forward to making a real difference to the lives of the people benefiting from this cause.”

The general public can still donate to Swim to See by sending a blank SMS to 50618903 (€6.99) or 50619201 (€11.65).

Those involved would like to thank all those who have helped out, especially Alan Zammit and his staff at the Fortina Spa Resort, and the Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club, particularly Isabelle Zarb.