Premier Roger Cook praises ‘incredible’ marathon swimmer Andy Donaldson’s choppy swim for Telethon
Fresh out of the ocean and only halfway through his mammoth fundraising efforts, marathon swimmer Andy Donaldson still couldn’t help but smile.
Arriving at Leighton Beach shortly after 11am after swimming almost 20km from Rottnest Island in choppy conditions, the world-record holder admitted he had dug deep to reach the coast.
“It was a bit bumpy at times. Felt like a bit of a washing machine,” Donaldson said.
“But you know, when you’re doing it for a cause like Telethon and for the kids of WA you find that extra gear.”
Camera IconAndy Donaldson arrives at Leighton Beach where he was met by Premier Roger Cook and members of the Fremantle SLSC. Credit: Michael Wilson/The West Australian
Sponsored by the Perron Institute, Donaldson, the first person to swim the world’s seven toughest channel swims in 12 months, said his trek from Rottnest to Elizabeth Quay raising funds for Telethon was his small contribution to the weekend’s efforts.
“I love trying to help a good cause. The world’s a challenging place at the moment, things like mental health are widespread, and I want to just do my small part to to help the cause,” he said.
“Telethon is such an incredible organisation. They support so many people. Youth mental health is one of those causes that they support.
“Everyone’s pitching in, and I’m a swimmer, so swimming is the thing I do.”
Camera IconAndy Donaldson arrives at Leighton Beach where he was met by Premier Roger Cook and former Fremantle Docker David Mundy. Credit: Michael Wilson/The West Australian
After a short rest at Leighton Beach, Donaldson was joined by Premier Roger Cook and former Fremantle Docker David Mundy for a 4km run to Mosman Bay.
“I can’t believe this guy — he’s just swum in what looks like some really difficult conditions. He’s going to come out, smash it across to Mossie Park and then jump back in the water and swim all the way to Barrack Street,” Mr Cook said.
Camera IconAndy and Roger Cook running the leg of the journey along with former Fremantle Docker David Mundy. Credit: Michael Wilson/The West Australian
“He’s an incredible guy, but he’s running for an amazing course, and it’s so great to be part of it.”
From there, Donaldson re-enters the water to swim to Elizabeth Quay and the finish line.
“It’s so important to support the next generation and you know, it’s really inspiring to see everyone so galvanized and pulling together to get behind the cause,” he said.
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