One stroke after another. One kilometer after another. One hour after another. One day after another.

That is what Halani Moss-Vete accomplished across the Moloka’i Channel in Hawaii, starting at 6:21 pm at South Papohako Beach on Molokai Island until she reached Sandy Beach on Oahu at 11:30 pm the next day on August 31st.

Halani simply kept on swimming and swimming.

Her time of 29 hours 10 minutes set a new record for longest Moloka’i Channel crossing in history.

With her crossing, the English Channel swimmer raised funds for the Ikaika Hawaii Waterman’s Academy, an academy dedicated to providing a pathway for children to develop physically and mentally as champions through water activities. They offer holistic training programs that inspire kids to strive for personal excellence, all the way to world and Olympic competition.

She explained on her charity fundraising page (here), “This swim is not just a challenge; it’s a heartfelt tribute to my incredible mother, who instilled in me a deep love and respect for the ocean. After her sudden passing, the ocean became my sanctuary, rescuing me from a dark period in my life. Now, I celebrate life through swimming, and I want to help share this transformative gift of water sports with the next generation.“

Halani has exceeded her goal of raising $4,000 by 54% – and counting – with Michael Twigg-Smith as her escort pilot. Twigg-Smith said, “Halani’s 29 hour 10 minute swim was in the top five of my most difficult swims to escort, Halani has tremendous will power and a heart of gold.”

Halani is now at $8,600 in her fundraising goal. “My goal was to raise US$100 for every kilometer I swim. Your generous contribution will empower children to unlock their potential and achieve greatness through the power of water sport. Together, we can make a huge difference in their lives and honor my mother’s beautiful legacy.”

Halani’s JustGiving page is here for additional donations and more information.

© 2024 Daily News of Open Water Swimming

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