Blind swimmer Kiri to attempt open-water challenge for club

Kiri Knight, 31, will be accompanied by Oceans Seven swimmer Adrian Sarchet on her quarter-mile sponsored swim on 18 August, with all the money raised going to the Guernsey Disability Swimming Group.

Training with the group and Mr Sarchet once a week, Miss Knight will also have to acclimatise to the open- water conditions but is determined to complete the course.

‘Two or three years ago I came up with the idea so it is third time lucky. A couple of times I had to stop training to have a knee operation.

‘I like the exercise of swimming and also the social element of it.

‘I’m most worried about jellyfish.

‘Adrian has said just don’t think about the finish, just keep going.

‘I’m hoping to just raise as much money as possible. There will be some of the residents from the home there to spur me on and I want as many people to come down and cheer me on as possible,’ she said.

Her trainer and swim partner on the day, Mr Sarchet, said Miss Knight was an inspiration.

‘Kiri and I have been pool training together every Thursday night for about three years.

‘We have also embarked upon sea training this year.

‘She is amazing.

‘Taking on an open-water swim is scary enough when you can see. Doing so without the ability to see takes another level of courage entirely.

‘She expresses that courage with her customary smile and her familiar determined face.

‘Kiri is simply inspirational.

‘She approaches her swimming with such a motivated “can do” attitude that she inspires me and everyone else at Guernsey Disability Swimming.

‘I am very much looking forward to swimming by Kiri’s side on her big swim and have every confidence that she will succeed.’

The swim will begin at 12.30pm on Saturday 18 August.

Sponsorship forms are available from Rousse Kiosk, Rita’s Salon and Loose Ends salon.