Monaco Earth Day Swim 2007  

It all started when I saw some garbage floating in the Port of Fontvieille. I took a closer look and saw all sorts of things - bottles, fishing lines, plastic bags, tires, a rubber glove… This is the same water that we swim in just a few kilometers away. How can this get some attention and get cleaned up? Well, I was told to go jump - so I did.

Actually it was Al Gore and his Inconvenient Truth that pushed me in. Everyone has to do their part to protect the environment and this was starting in my own backyard.   Swimming in the Ports is against the law here so I needed special permission to begin. Together with the office of Mr. Paul Masseron - Department of the Interior and the Police Maritime, we set a 2.5km route beginning at the Capitanerie in the Port of Fontvieille and continuing over to the beach at Larvotto.

The morning of Earth Day 2007 - April 22nd - I very slowly climbed down the ladder into the freaking cold water - I might have Canadian blood but I was not jumping!!!

The green Earth Day balloon tied around me was made from 100% biodegradable material and helped others to see me.

Except for a big arm stroke in front of the magnificent Oceanographic Museum, I went all the way without any stops. The Digue was never ending and it had waves pushing me sideways all the way along.

The Maritime Police protected me from passing boats while crossing the Port of the Condamine.

Upon arrival at the beach, I was greeted by Kate from Stars 'n Bars, Pierre Frolla from Ecole Bleu and by William Hughes who provided logistical support throughout the swim. Tania Hughes took the photos and helped to preserve the memories of the day.  

It was just a start…