Unprecedented Above-Knee Amputee Relay "Team Bits Missing" Takes Bronze at WOWSA Para Performance of the Year Awards

Unprecedented Above-Knee Amputee Relay “Team Bits Missing” Takes Bronze at WOWSA Para Performance of the Year Awards

WOWSA 02/08/2023 open water swimming No Comment

Team Bits Missing, an unprecedented channel swimming relay, has been honored as the bronze recipient in the Para Performance of the Year category at the WOWSA Awards.

The relay team, which completed a 35 km North Channel crossing, was composed of five above-knee amputees: Catherine Sunley of England, David Burke of Northern Ireland, Andrew Smith of England, Mary Clewlow-Self of Wales, and Jonty Warneken of England. In 15 hours 8 minutes, Team Bits Missing completed a truly inspiring feat of strength and determination.

David Burke of Team Bits Missing

The WOWSA Awards, an annual recognition of excellence in open water swimming, celebrates individuals and offerings that embody the spirit of open water swimming and have made a positive impact on the community. Over 143 nominations were evaluated by the 97 members of the WOWSA Awards Voting Academy, and Team Bits Missing was one of the 10 finalists chosen from 23 different countries for the Para Performance of the Year category.

More than 11,400 public votes were cast, with a 75% weighting from the WOWSA Academy and 25% from the general public, to determine the winners in each category. Team Bits Missing was selected for its demonstration of courage and determination in the face of adversity.

The achievements of Team Bits Missing are a testament to the spirit of perseverance and strength that lies within us all. They serve as an inspiration to all open water swimmers, regardless of ability, to push themselves to their limits and beyond. Congratulations to Team Bits Missing on their well-deserved recognition at the WOWSA Awards!

See Open Water Swimming Community Honors its Best at 2022 WOWSA Awards

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