Hayden Hudson, just turned 11, from Bolsover has decided to use his position as a member of the County squad for a cause far more influential than competitive swimming. After the help Hayden received from the Nightingale Ward at Chesterfield Hospital and Sheffield Children’s Hospital, he wanted to find a way to repay their aid and show his gratitude. As a part of his fundraising journey, he has also raised hundreds of pounds for the Chesterfield Hospital Macmillan unit, Cleft Lip & Palate Association (CLAPA) and Freedom food bank. It is the combination of all of these as well as Hayden’s personal perseverance which has gained him national recognition and gained ITV a new inspirational interview.
Given an ordinary year, Hayden would choose to complete at least two sponsored swims per year for a charity of his choice in order to raise awareness and lend a helping hand to those who need it whilst simultaneously encouraging people of all ages to take part in the sport he loves most. However, as the past year has been far from ordinary, he has decided to go above and beyond and participate in no fewer than four sponsored swimming events (so far); 1 mile, 2 miles, 3 miles and 100 lengths. Like everyone in the country, when lockdown struck, he lost the opportunity to swim. Nevertheless, not being able to get in a pool did not stop Hayden’s drive and determination to help others, it led him to push himself even further out of his comfort zone to complete a fifth sponsored event, a 100 mile bike ride. As of yet, he has phenomenally raised over £4000 for five different causes.
From the 22nd July to the 22nd October this year, Hayden will be taking on Swim22 which involves swimming 22 miles in aid of Diabetes UK. As ever, he has dedicated himself to exceeding the majority and will in fact be aiming to swim 44 miles, doubling the initial expectation for the event. He has currently raised £210 which, with your support, will no doubt be greatly surpassed.
If you could support Hayden’s goal, please donate anything you can to this amazing cause. Click the link below to donate!
Written by Sophie Baker, National Squad