Isle of Wight Swimmer Completes Epic 33km Ultra Challenge In Montenegro

An Isle of Wight community centre manager has completed her incredible endurance challenge — swimming more than 33 kilometres across the Adriatic Sea to raise over £10,000 for West Wight Sports and Community Centre.

Clare Griffin took part in Ultra Swim 33.3 Montenegro — a gruelling multi-day event covering the same distance as an English Channel crossing, split over four days.

Battling unseasonably stormy weather, powerful winds and rough seas, Clare was one of over 100 swimmers from 23 countries to make it to the start line.

“It was far tougher than I imagined,” she said.

“We had gale-force winds, waves like a washing machine, and even swam through a Cold War submarine pen carved into the cliffs!

"But giving up wasn’t an option.”

Clare completed the 33.3km course in 12 hours and 25 minutes, finishing 61st overall and second in her 60+ age group.

The 61-year-old, who trained for months around a full-time job, said the experience was as much mental as physical.

“Swimming was the easy bit — managing nerves, cold and exhaustion was the real test.

"But I kept reminding myself that one day I won’t be able to do this… and today was not that day.”

Through her efforts, Clare has helped raise more than £10,000 for West Wight Sports and Community Centre, ensuring it can continue providing essential local services for years to come.

You can still donate to Clare’s fundraising page here: totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/clares-ultraswim