7am, Sept 6th 2021 – 8 hours, 6 blokes, 1 epic Bay to Bay paddle. It was one of the hottest September days in Croyde, yet six men chose to go for a paddle. But it wasn’t just any old paddle… Bay To Bay Marathon For Charity The six compadres were Ian Bennett (Adaptive Surfing Lead at The Wave Project), our very own Jack Patching and local legends Peter Makepeace, Stu Poynter, Sam Hedges and Jake Sayer. They all took to the Atlantic on surf lifesaving boards and each paddled 26 miles for three different charities. The chosen good causes were:- The Wave Project, Alzheimers UK and Croyde Surf Lifesaving Club. The little group set off at 7am and paddled nonstop between Croyde Lifeguard hut and Saunton Surf Lifesaving Club for most of the day. It was an epic, exhausting 8 hour paddle, which also included running the difference of the tide back to the huts between each lap. Quite frankly, we like the sound of the paddle far more than the running bit! Success Long story short, they did it. The team had aimed to raise over £6000 to be divided up between the three different charities. 50% of the proceeds will go to The Wave Project, and 25% each will go to the other two charities. We’re proud to report that the guys have well surpassed this target already but let’s continue the love. There’s still room for more donations, so please keep giving if you can. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jack-patching1? The Why Behind The Bay To Bay Marathon “Ian Bennett comments, “I really felt motivated to do this paddle as the causes are all dear to my heart. Obviously, I work for the Wave Project and know the amazing results adaptive surfers can achieve. It’s truly life changing. So, we’ll be using this money to obtain more desperately required equipment for them as there’s a real need.” Ian continues, “As for Croyde Surf Lifesaving Club, well it’s my home club and I know how much this money will benefit our local community. Then there is Alzheimer’s UK which is truly very close to my heart. A member of my family suffers from the disease and I have first hand experience of how disabling and cruel this condition can be.” We’re also especially proud of our Jack who could regularly be seen taking advantage of a little wave as he went round the point. Jack comments, “It was seriously hot out there but we kept hydrated and the thought of the charities always spurred us on.” Fundraising Have the group any plans for the future paddles and projects? Well, knowing the individuals involved, we think this might just be the start of it. Watch this space, we have a feeling the boys may roam farther. What Next? Just a reminder. If you haven’t had a chance to look at the group’s fundraising page please pop over there now. There is still time to donate and it seriously will make all the difference in the world. Thank you! https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jack-patching1?