Swimmer’s marathon effort

• Published date: 25 April 2024
• Publication title: Clutha Leader

Lawrence Area School pupil Anna Harrex swam the equivalent distance of Cook Strait’s narrowest point (22km) to raise funds for the Cancer Society last Friday

She swam 880 laps of the 25m Tuapeka Aquatic Centre in Lawrence.

Anna’s grandfather, Colin Harrex (80), was diagnosed with bowel cancer last year, which sparked Anna’s desire to do something to contribute.

Anna has raised more than $6000.

The exact amount will be revealed later.

Although she was rightfully tired, her father, Andrew, said she was proud of herself.

‘‘It’s very hard not to be bursting with pride for Anna right now,’’ he said.

‘‘She has done an outstanding job and she’s quite proud to get it done.’’

The community turning up for Anna was ‘‘amazing’’, Mr Harrex said.

‘‘The whole school turned up to cheer her on, the mayor came in to watch her swim and various people throughout the community supported and donated to the cause.

‘‘We’re very thankful to...