Hi Friends,

During the week of September 23-29 this year, I will attempt to swim across the English Channel. Following the Channel Swimming Association Rules, I’ll wear only my bathing suit, swim cap, and goggles. The swim will take me from England to France, covering approximately 35 kilometers. I estimate it will take between 12 to 16 hours. I’ll have a support boat navigating the shipping lanes, throwing me a bottle of feed every hour, and encouraging me to swim faster. :)

This swim is both the realization of a dream I've had for many years, and an event in honour of someone very special to me. As a youngster I was an exceptionally enthusiastic and mediocre swimmer who thrived in the swim club community. Training and competing gave me fitness, goals to focus on, opportunities to travel and learn, and lifelong friendships that continue to this day. After a long break, I returned to swimming in 2013. I quickly rediscovered my love for the sport, particularly open water, and signed up for as many events as I could find. I’ve swum races in Canada, the US, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Italy, and the UK.

Why Jumpstart? I am privileged to have participated in sports since I was a child. My parents were passionate about athletics and kept me and my sister busy and active, driving us to countless activities while working full-time jobs. They volunteered tirelessly to cover the costs, including timing at meets, writing newsletters, coaching, baking for the concessions, and fundraising for our clubs.

My dad, Kelly Bowers, passed away suddenly in 2019, a short time before I received my acceptance for the Lake Zurich Swim. He was a passionate lifelong advocate for physical education, and dedicated his entire teaching career to equity in opportunity for kids in sports. Countless young athletes benefitted from his efforts, but perhaps none as much as me. Fundraising for this swim is a way to honour his efforts on the fifth anniversary of his passing. I know he would have been on my support boat, cheering me on (very loudly) to France.

Please join me in supporting Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Jumpstart helps kids facing financial and accessibility barriers access sports and play. Since 2005, they’ve helped over 2.4 million kids across Canada get involved in activities like swimming, soccer, hockey, and ballet.

You can support me by clicking the “donate” button to make a secure online donation. Together, we can help kids learn new skills, build confidence, and boost their self-esteem through activities in their communities.