MENLO PARK, Calif. (KRON) — Aleksei Averchenko, a swim coach, began a 12-hour swimming marathon Wednesday morning in Menlo Park to raise money for student athletes. Averchenko is undertaking the challenge after a serious accident forced him to relearn how to walk and swim. His goal is to swim more than 26 miles during the event.
The fundraiser aims to provide scholarships and equipment for the 40 children who are part of Averchenko’s First Youth Triathlon Team.
His dedication to their development extends beyond the pool. Averchenko, the swim coach, shared his personal mission, stating, “I think the life goal of mine to be inspirational, to inspire kids, to make sure that they follow the example and to make sure they can trust and believe in themselves.”
Averchenko was hit by a drunk driver while riding his bike a couple of years ago, which led to his extensive recovery journey.
This marks Averchenko’s second such event; he raised over $20,000 during a similar personal challenge last year. Averchenko noted the shift in his motivation this year, explaining, “Last year it was a more personal challenge and today it’s more for the community.” The swimming marathon also falls on his birthday, which he is spending giving back to his community.
The 12-hour swimming marathon in Menlo Park is scheduled to conclude at 6 p.m.
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