During the first week of October 2012,  a relay team of six Rhodes Scholars will attempt to swim the English Channel - sans wetsuit - from Dover to Calais. This team of dedicated athletes includes Meg Braun (California & St John's 2011), Michael Fargher (South Africa-at-Large & St John's 2011), Katy Hansen (Montana & Christ Church 2011), Michael Jones (Australia-at-Large & Magdalen 2011), Alice Lang (Australia-at-Large & Lady Margaret Hall 2011), and myself, Caroline Barlow (Florida & Keble 2011).

A private sponsor is underwriting the actual cost of the swim and each team member is aiming to raise £1000 for WaterAid, an award-winning international non-profit group.

WaterAid enables the world's poorest people to gain access to safe water and sanitation. Together with improved hygiene, these basic human rights underpin health, education and livelihoods, forming the first essential step in overcoming poverty. WaterAid works with local partners and provides them with the skills and support to help communities set up and manage sustainable projects that meet the communties' real needs. They also work locally and internationally to change policy and practice and ensure that water, hygiene and sanitation's vital role in reducing poverty is recognized.

For more information on WaterAid visit: http://www.wateraid.org/

My teammates and I are looking forward to training for and participating in this challenging relay swim, and we are grateful for the opportunity to raise money for an outstanding aid organization that is truly making a difference all over the world. 

Thank you for your support & donations!

~ Caroline