Eure. Channel crossing: swimmers give up

The two swimmers did not take up their crazy challenge of swimming across the Channel. Gilles Heudebourg and Nicolas Vasseur had been training for two years to cross the Some in the meaning England/France.

Having left France on June 25, Gilles and Nicolas were waiting for the green light from the captain of the boat who was to follow them during their 34 km crossing between Folkstown and Wissant. A crossing that they had to complete in approximately 13 hours.

Sunday June 30, on the MancH2O Facebook page, the two swimmers sent a message announcing their departure.

A week before leaving the FranceGilles Heudebourg, resident of Vironvay and former coach at Louviers swimming club (ENL), said he was planning to leave early in the morning to swim during the day. Unfortunately, his wish did not come true since, depending on the weather and the state of the sea, the two swimmers began their crossing at the end of the day: “Departure today at 5 p.m.”, they said. they mentioned on their Facebook page.

Night swimming

Gilles (61 years old) and Nicolas (35 years old) put on their swimsuits, hats and goggles before starting their relay crossing. After seven hours of swimming, in the middle of the night, the two athletes had to abandon their challenge. Gilles and Nicolas left a comment: “Sorry, we gave up. Too difficult experience at night for us. » Followed by many supporters, the two swimmers received encouragement and congratulations despite their retirement.

As a reminder, Gilles and Nicolas’ bet was motivated by humanitarian action: create two boreholes in Togo to bring water for crops and for a health center.

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