"Shut Up and Swim" for Charlie

Thursday 30 July 2020

Islanders are being encouraged to “Shut Up and Swim” in memory of a local long-distance swimmer.

The ‘virtual' challenge is a fundraiser organised by supporters of the Jersey Lifeboat Association, which was a cause close to the heart of Charlie Gravett, who died earlier this month.

Participants are being asked to swim 1,600m wherever they choose, perhaps in the sea or a pool, before this Saturday.

The JLA said: “We are hoping that many of Charlie’s mates will pull on their Speedos and plod through a mile in honour of our pal. Charlie was a big personality, extraordinarily generous with his time, and a leader in the sport that we all love for more than 50 years. He’ll be missed by so many.

“After discussing the best way to honour him with his wife, Sal, we agreed that a virtual swim would be most appropriate, with all proceeds going to the JLA.”

Pictured: Islanders are being asked to swim 1,600m - either in the sea or a pool.

Mr Gravett, who died aged 77, was a lifelong supporter of long-distance swimming.

In 1962, he was part of a six-man relay team that swam 115.86km in 44 hours from Turkey to Cyprus - a feat that made the Guinness Book of Records.

Later, he became a trusted escort pilot for many long-distance swims, around Jersey and further afield.

More information about the challenge is available HERE. 

Pictured top: Charlie Gravett and his wife, Sally Minty-Gravett.