THE latest Jersey-France Challenge saw the first Spanish team to complete the 14-mile relay swim take to the water after raising thousands of pounds for charity.
Team Spain made the crossing from La Coupe to Carteret with a time of around seven hours and 24 minutes, claiming second overall and first in the wetsuit category.
The team also made it to the top spot on the fundraising leaderboard, having garnered over £12,000 in support of Dementia Jersey – well above the Spaniards’ initial target of £8,000.
They were led by team captain Jorge Postigo, who swam alongside his brothers Iván and Marco as well as his nephew Kai, with the support of the team doctor, Mr Postigo’s daughter Blanca.
Mr Postigo noted that the crossing was initially “tougher than expected” with rough seas for the first couple of hours.
“After that it was a smooth, beautiful swim, contested right to the end, and once we reached Carteret we celebrated with the other teams,” Mr Postigo continued.
“All in all, an unforgettable experience.”
Jersey-France Challenge founder Simon O’Donoghue hailed the efforts of everyone who took part.
“At the end of the day, you never feel bad after going for a swim,” he added, noting that there had also been dolphins sighted and describing the reception by officials and supporters in Carteret as “quite incredible”.
He highlighted that, overall, the event had managed to raise an “extraordinary” £56,000 for Dementia Jersey.
Fundraising co-ordinator Nadine Jagger added: “£56,300 is an incredible amount raised, which will have a lasting impact on people affected by dementia across Jersey.
“We are hugely grateful to every swimmer, skipper, supporter and those behind the scenes who made this year’s Jersey France Challenge such a success.
“To see the fundraising grow so significantly in the final days, particularly with the generous matched- donation pledge, was truly remarkable.
“Every pound raised will make a real difference, helping us continue to provide free advice and support to islanders affected by dementia.
“We cannot thank everyone involved enough for their generosity and commitment.”
Donations can still be made online at jerseyfrancechallenge.com.
