Himalaya Swim: World Record Attempt In Aid Of Children And To Highlight Climate Change
Madswimmer aims for a world record altitude swim in the Himalayas in icy glacial waters between 20 April and 8
15 December 2024
Madswimmer Knysna Lagoon Challenge
Red Bridge to The Heads 14.5km
The Sky is the Limit” Madswimmer Team triumphantly returned to a camp in Kagkot in the Himalayas on Sunday afternoon, the 12 of May, marking their reconnection with civilization and their first steps on solid ground after a grueling fifteen-day ascent on the icy slopes of Mt. Putha Hiunchuli in the Himalayas. Their mission was to complete the highest altitude swim ever recorded.
On the morning of May 10th, at an altitude of 6,405 meters, the team achieved their ambitious goal. They surpassed the previous record of 6,370 meters set by Australian Dan Bull in the Andes Mountains in South America, thus shifting the highest swim record to a new continent under challenging conditions— a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Jean Craven, expedition leader and founder of Madswimmer, noted that the trek to the swim site was the most arduous part of the journey. Following three flights and a nerve-wracking 17-hour Jeep ride along steep cliffs, the team embarked on a 138km uphill trek that lasted 15 days. With the aid of eighteen sherpas and a caravan of 35 donkeys and yaks, they transported over a ton of equipment and supplies essential for their survival. They faced harsh icy conditions, battling wind and snow, and navigated treacherously near crevasses that threatened to collapse beneath them.
Describing the swim, Jean recounted, “The last accessible liquid (swimming) water was found at 4,900 meters. To achieve a world record, we needed to venture higher and create a suitable swimming environment at 6,405 meters. We carved out a swimming hole in the ice and melted ice in large drums that preserved the liquid water overnight. The swimming hole was covered under a tent canvas to prevent refreezing at night. The next morning, we removed the canvas, filled the ice hole with the liquid water we preserved, and took turns swimming in it for about three minutes each, wearing Speedos only. The water was chillingly cold at 3.7 degrees Celsius, with the outside temperature at minus six.”
The expedition was conducted with a commitment to environmental stewardship. After their historic swim, the water was carefully returned to the mountain, where it refroze.
Dr. Chiara Baard, the team doctor, diligently monitored the members’ vital signs and general health throughout. Oxygen levels were measured in the morning and again at night and it was interesting observing how sleep aided their acclimatization overnight. Despite most team members lacking experience in high-altitude climbing, none suffered severe shortness of breath or other altitude symptoms. Three members took medication to facilitate acclimatization, which was discontinued as they began their descent. Post-swim, everyone was warmed in heated tents, dressed in warm clothes covered with hot water bottles, ensuring their bodies recovered well from the extreme cold.
The team emphasized that their expedition aimed to witness and document the impacts of climate change. They encountered alarming signs, like running water appearing nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. The solid ice is crucial for binding the soil in these frigid zones. The melting of it threatens devastating land and mudslides that could obliterate communities. With global awareness campaigns initiated by Nepalese tourism and the vivid documentation by Madswimmer, the team hopes to spark meaningful discussions and highlight the urgent need to address climate change.
Jean believes that in the dynamic world of open water swimming, Madswimmer stands out as a beacon of hope and perseverance. “We want to reclaim the high altitude swimming record for South Africa to show that we are capable of much more than we think or believe. We do not swim for adventure only but also to become heroes for the children and communities we serve, and to set an example of what can be achieved through courage, unity, and a heart for change. We want to challenge people to step out of their own comfort zones to do and achieve more.”
Dr. Chiara Baars says that while safety is their highest priority, the expedition can be life-threatening. She explains that altitude sickness and frostbite are medical conditions that will be closely monitored on this journey. Depending on each person’s adjustment to the extreme altitudes, they might have to take critical decisions in the moment to ensure safety.
As in the past, Madswimmer will use the opportunity to highlight a social issue. This time it is climate change – the reason for the formation of higher water pools in the Himalayas. “By seeking out these pools and swimming there, we want to create awareness on the consequences of climate change and challenge people to rethink their actions that damage the planet. Cameraman Thufayl Ali will use satellite filming equipment to film the group amidst the breathtaking landscapes and provide daily updates on their progress. The effects of climate change will be pointed out throughout.
Craven says they are privileged to undertake such an endeavor, and therefore always give something back. One hundred percent of the funds they raise with any swim benefit child support services. This swim specifically supports the Universitas Hospital’s Oncology Unit for Teens and Adolescents, as well as the Tygerberg Children’s Hospital.
We invite people to contribute to the indispensable services these organizations provide by supporting our Back-a-Buddy campaign
These and other charities are supported by our swims.
The Children’s Hospital Trust (established in 1995) is the independent fundraising arm of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.
Established in 2010, Atlantic Hope is a safety house for vulnerable babies, providing temporary and immediate placement within a safe and loving environment.
These and other charities are supported by our swims.
The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town stands as a beacon of hope, providing critical pediatric care to children from across South Africa. Renowned for its comprehensive medical services, this institution is dedicated to treating young patients with a wide range of health conditions. Support for the Red Cross Children’s Hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.
The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialized care for teenagers battling cancer. This unit is a crucial part of the hospital’s mission to offer a supportive and comfortable environment for young patients and their families. Donations help to fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers facing cancer receive the best possible care during their fight.
In the heart of the Himalayas, the Phuta Village Porter Shelter Project aims to construct a sanctuary for the industrious porters who facilitate mountain expeditions. Concurrently, our commitment to the local community has led to the sponsorship of 175 branded “ADI: Madswimmer” down jackets, ensuring the children of these remote areas are warmly clothed against the harsh mountain climate. This initiative not only provides practical aid but also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and support between adventurers and the local populace. As we prepare for our journey, we look forward to discussing further engagement with this project and continuing our support of the resilient communities that are integral to the spirit of exploration.
Madswimmer aims for a world record altitude swim in the Himalayas in icy glacial waters between 20 April and 8
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