For as long as long as I can remember, swimming has given me purpose. It is through this sport that I have travelled the world, relentlessly tested myself, and met many of the amazing individuals in my life.

In February of 2022, the invasion of Ukraine left my family in disbelief. From that moment forward, the wheels behind this swim started to take shape. Between June 9-16th, we’ll swim to support current refugees fleeing Ukraine.

My grandfather was born in Western Ukraine, during a time where Ukraine was under Soviet Occupation, and an advancing German force. At 15, he fled through Switzerland and into Italy, where we believe he found refuge at a refugee camp in Italy - eventually making his way to the United Kingdom.

I’m here to support those refugees fleeing Ukraine, once again, so that one day, their grandchildren know the resilience of Ukraine and its people.

When I was younger, I considered the water to be my favourite place. I used it as a way of escaping from the world, it was time that I used to focus, challenge myself and reflect on my goals and aspirations.

This mentality has helped me thrive over the last few years, both in my personal and professional life. Swimming has, in a round about way, helped me achieve most of the things I have set out to do.

So I guess this challenge for me is about reconnecting with a sport that has given me so much. It's an opportunity to remind myself that a little bit of effort every day can have a long lasting impact; both for myself and for the people I choose to share those experiences with.

It feels only right to use these skills to raise money for the causes closest to my heart.

Dan, originally from Edinburgh is no stranger to swimming, having competed for Team GB at the Olympic Games in 2016 and represented Team Scotland at multiple Commonwealth Championships.

Being born and raised on the East coast of Scotland, rough, cold and choppy water is something Dan is accustomed to. However the channel crossing this summer will be one of his toughest challenges to date.

We wanted to make our channel swim represent something bigger than just the five of us. Solidarité Ukraine aids support for thousands of refugees and being able to support this cause is extremely important to us all. Alongside this we have chosen to support cancer research UK in their ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those affected by this disease. We hope with our voice we can make a meaningful impact to both of these charities.

Ross is a Scot hailing from Edinburgh and living in London. With a background in swimming and elite triathlon, he is no stranger from the ways of the water. Currently working as an innovation strategist, Ross works for the UK’s accelerator for transport, cities and place.

There is a mindset and attitude that binds these 5 swimmers together, the curiosity to try and push the boundaries of what they feel is possible and leave a mark on the world they want to see.

“For myself, I have seen the effect cancer can have on families close to my own and it only feels right to be supporting Cancer Research UK. We don’t get many chances in life to do something worthwhile and truly for a good cause; this is one of those very opportunities.”

Haines is an Aussie that was raised outside of Boston, and has been swimming his whole life. Currently he lives in NYC. He currently works as an investment analyst for BC Partners.