Harlee Elite’s Alex Clarke (pictured), who along with his staff, coaches his squads from the pool deck at Revesby, Birrong and Roselands Leisure and Aquatic Centres, said he’s taking the plunge and leading by example to raise much-needed funds for Beyond Blue.
“We all know of family members, or people in the community, who have been affected by mental health,” Mr Clarke said.
“My day of pain in the pool is the least I can do, and it will never compare to what people go through when they lose a loved one to this illness.”
Mr Clarke will take to the water later this month and hopes to achieve the personal milestone by swimming the 800 laps of the Revesby pool between sunrise and sunset.
“It’s a bit of a self-challenge, but ultimately it’s about inspiring everyone through Beyond Blue to raise a voice and have those discussions,” he said.
Mr Clarke has been preparing for the big day with daily swims, cross fit sessions and runs in between his usual morning and evening coaching at the pools.
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said he was proud of Alex’s contribution and hoped to be poolside to cheer him on.
“Alex is a role model and an inspiration to hundreds of young swimmers in the community,” the Mayor said.
“He is an example of someone using their talents to help others.”
The ‘Making a Splash Beyond the Blue Line’ fundraiser event will take place at Max Parker Leisure and Aquatic Centre on Saturday, November 25. There will also be a barbecue, raffle, kids’ activities and live music.
The community is invited to go along and lend their support.
Donations: fundraise.beyondblue.org.au/makingasplashbeyondtheblueline.
Swim coach diving deep to help support charity
THE head coach of an elite group of swimmers at Canterbury Bankstown’s pools, will be diving in the deep end and swimming 40 kilometres for a cause close to his heart.
