Dubai-Based Athlete To Set Swimming Record At Palm Jumeirah

Alex Millington, a Dubai-based athlete, will attempt to set a new world record by engaging in a historic open water swim around Palm Jumeirah, the first of its kind, along with other people from the athletic community, including professional swimmers.

The lap will be on Saturday, according to reports. The swim will start from the 18km stretch that spans from Palm West Beach around the Jumeirah. Millington, who is a CrossFit athlete, was a participant in the UAE Gov Games 2021 alongside Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Reports further state that he will be competing in a 6-8 hours swimming event.

The feat will be attempted at the Dubai Fitness Challenge in collaboration with AgencyTouch, which represents inclusivity and empowerment in sports in the emirates. While the swim is on, Alex will be supported by professionals including Kevin Paul, two-time gold Paralympian; Perry Gardner, the British record holder for the 100-meter freestyle relay; Mike Bourne, Commonwealth gold medalist; Izabella Blacklock, British nationals and relay medalist from 2013 to 2017; Janna Ashgari, 18-year-old swimmer and fifth in the World in Oceanman Championships rankings, and Rhianna Bennett, two-time silver and bronze British nationals winner

Youth swimmers from clubs across Dubai will be joining Alex in the last 500 meters. People who will be participating in the event come from varied and diverse backgrounds, having achievements in a range of fields, such as arts, music, gymnastics and poetry.

An organization named Nakheel is hosting the swimming event. Chief Assets Officer Omar Khoory said that the main purpose of the event is to promote social inclusivity and happiness.

"This historic event during the Dubai Fitness Challenge will bring the entire community together to support and uplift these amazing athletes and participants of all ages and abilities, as they attempt to create a new record," Khaleej Times quoted him as saying.

Palm Jumeirah is a hub of recreational activities in Dubai. The place offers entertainment of all hues and caters to a diverse range of age groups, from 6-66. The Little Champions Fitness Club, at the venue, is organizing a fitness and fun event for children on November 26, from 10 am to 8 pm. The place also has a beautiful beach, the Pointe which caters to Padel enthusiasts and much more.