This is a noble effort for a noble cause: to help an inspirational young man continue to motivate those who cannot even fathom what gifts we have as open water swimmers. The Night Train Swimmers’ 300-mile relay goal is to inspire other athletes through action, and to support an athlete, who once had all of so much of what we we cherish taken away, yet fights and never gives up, despite the losing the use of his legs. For these swimmers to take on such an extreme challenge is admirable, but to support what we as athletes can inspire, or what this young man can do with his return to mobility to motivate those who cannot use their hands and/or legs is unsurpassed. That is the goal of the NT 300. To swim, to inspire and to give back.

We are swimming so one young man can stand up not just for himself, but through his example and his organization Life Goes On, to demonstrate to those who are born with less ability, or those who suddenly cannot walk or use their arms again, that the spirit endures.

The challenges of swimming in the San Francisco Bay are akin to the open ocean with extreme and often unexpected: counter currents, temperature lows and in some cases highs, wildlife including sharks, but the most hazardous is shipping and navigation hazards. Swimming in the Bay is no tidal surf, but a challenge of ability and endurance and will.

Swimming, achieving, winning goals and recognition are beautiful. Personal goals or even unsurpassed achievements are admirable. But they are just that, personal, and often egotistical records that will fade away by someone better or by time.

Applying time, effort, talent and money to give to others is sublime. Night Train swimmers achieve, often setting unsurpassed challenges, yet they give their talent and heart so others like Arthur can benefit and summit challenges unthinkable to the able bodied.