Ocean Swim for Kororāreka Russell School
Solo ocean water swim for Kororāreka Russell School.
Northland
One day this March, when weather and tidal conditions look promising, I'm hoping to complete a solo open water swim from Kororāreka to Paihia - a distance of 3.3km. Needless to say, this is not like anything I have done before. But fear of sharks and stingrays aside, I am really excited about it as a chance to raise funds for a very special school....
Kororāreka Russell Primary is located in a historic area in the rural far north of Aotearoa. It is a majority Māori and Pasifika school with an enrollment of 70 children, ages 5 - 13 years. Starting last year, the school made a public commitment not ask whānau for any donations. I'm hoping you will sponsor my swim so that we can raise money for an Activity Fund that stands in lieu of parent/guardian contributions to support Kororāreka School.
A donation of $50 would enable three Year 1 students to have an ocean safety lesson. A donation of $75 would enable the ten Year 2 students to visit Maiki Hill, where local Ngāpuhi protested British rule. A donation of $400 would enable all Year 3 and 4 students to visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Our family will match any donation of $25 or more, up to $500.
Rebecca Hamilton's involvement (page creator)
Our family is grateful for the way Kororāreka has welcomed us. And it has been a personal life goal to complete an open water ocean swim. Much gratitude to Ann Browett and Karen Markin for helping me figure out how to make the attempt responsibly!
Use of funds
All funds will go the Kororāreka Russell School Activity Fund to: 1/ Provide students with ocean safety lessons that are vital in an area surrounded by water; 2/ Take students on local field trips that connect them with the rich history of their region.
Latest update
Success!! 10 March 2021
First, an enormous thank you to everyone who has given so generously. I'm thrilled to report that I completed the swim in 56 mins and 11 secs! My goal was 75 mins, so I have wind direction and adrenalin to thank for working in my favor.
Second, I want to share the most incredible welcome out of the water from the school who heard that I was close to shore and headed down to the beach for a spontaneous haka (see video attached - turn up the sound). It literally bought tears to my eyes. I told the kids there are people here and all round the world who believe in them and their school.
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