Professor Greg Whyte, world-renowned Sports Scientist, physical activity expert, and former Olympian, returned to the water on Monday 1 August to complete his 125-mile world record swim of the Upper Thames.  

Greg had taken on the challenge to complete the swim in world-record breaking time but after a serious shoulder injury, he was forced to withdraw from the challenge. However, not to let something beat him, Greg ensured he worked hard with his recovery and three weeks after first getting in the water he completed the challenge.  

He set off on Monday with the aim of completing the final 50km of the swim, finishing at Teddington Lock early evening on Tuesday.  

As well as completing the challenge, Greg has now raised over £21,000 for both the Royal Life Saving Society UK and RNLI whilst spreading vital water safety messages.  

Greg celebrates completing record swim with Lee Heard and Matt Croxall

Lee Heard, Charity Director at RLSS UK said “The challenge was the first time that this stretch of the Upper Thames had been taken on in the quickest time so Greg was looking to push the boundaries on what was possible. Not only has Greg shown incredible and inspirational endurance and determination to get back in the water to complete the challenge, but has once again shown his fantastic commitment to raising awareness about water safety education and supporting RLSS UK. We are so proud of Greg for completing this challenge against the odds and for raising a huge amount for both us at RLSS UK and RNLI. Well done Greg, and thank you.” 

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