GCU duo make a splash for Cancer Research UK

Two GCU students are set to take part in a charity swimming event – which will see them both complete 200 consecutive lengths.

Podiatry students Ellie Earl and Ronan Payne are aiming to raise £500 for Cancer Research UK before they take the plunge at Strathclyde University on March 28, as part of Swimathon 2020.

Ellie admits that swimming the equivalent of 5km is daunting, however feels the sacrifice will be worth it for a cause close to her heart.

She explained: “My grandad passed away in September through lung cancer, so I’m doing this for him - I saw it advertised in October and knew I wanted to get involved. I then asked Ronan and thankfully he agreed to join me, we’re both really looking forward to it.

I usually focus on 100m and sprints so this will definitely be something a little different. Swimming is a tough sport overall, it’s not like running where you can talk to people to get through it. This will just be a case of getting your head down and getting on with it.”

The pair, who are both members of the GCU Swim Team, would also encourage other students to get involved in a similar challenge, which positively impacts mental and physical health.

Ronan said: “For me, it would just be a case of actually getting started and giving it a shot. The longest distance I’ve ever swam before is 1.5 km, however a challenge is always going to be a challenge if you keep putting it off. You just need to be focused on what you want to achieve and that will keep you motivated.”

If you would like to support Ellie and Ronan in their efforts, you can donate here

By Ross Clark

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