A LONG-distance swimmer on a mammoth charity mission to raise £100,000 has been nominated for an international award.
Andy Donaldson has been shortlisted for the World Open Water Swimming Association’s Man of the Year 2022.
The endurance athlete is in the middle of tackling the epic 200km Oceans Seven challenge, which has seen him face some of the hardest channel swims in the world.
Andy has already smashed a decade-long record with his eight-hour swim across the English Channel, and also set a British record after going from Scotland to Ireland in nine hours.
The West Kilbride native, who once tried out for the Olympics, moved to Australia ten years ago and worked in accounting and volcano tourism before rediscovering his love for the water.
Andy has now been nominated in the WOWSA awards alongside nine other inspirational athletes - and says he is humbled to be included.
He told the News: “The nominees across all categories, including male and female of the year, are all absolutely incredible.
“I feel truly humbled to feature alongside inspirational swimmers who I’ve looked up to for many years growing up.
“For me, 2022 was an unforgettable year filled with lots of learning, growth and incredible experiences, all aimed at raising funds and awareness for mental health.”
Andy has already raised an incredible $18,000 for the Black Dog Institute, which undertakes studies around the world to better understand mental wellbeing.
The swimmer will take on channel swims in New Zealand, Japan and Los Angeles this year as he attempts to be one of less than 30 people to complete the Oceans Seven challenge.
Andy has hailed his family, friends and support team, who have been with him every step of the way as he completes his global challenge.
He said: “I was lucky to share my experiences with some wonderful people, many of whom were there supporting and helping to make them possible.
“To my family, friends, coaches, mentors, skippers, support crew, sports chiro and nutritionists; thank you and I am truly grateful.
“I would encourage everyone to vote in the awards to get the word out there and help people learn about the incredible achievements of open water swimmers around the globe.”
You can vote for Andy here.
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