Failure matters just as much as success

Fundraiser's 24-hour challenge cut short due to shoulder injury

Learning from failure is just as important as celebrating success; it's the message from a local man who took on a huge challenge to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Martin Malone attempted 'The Big Swim' earlier this month, as part of the ambitious Expedition Limitless 2026 fundraising campaign - raising over £24,140 in the process.

He attempted the swim on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September at St Andrews Lakes, Kent, all in support of Rebecca House Children’s Hospice and The Children’s Centre Isle of Man.

The solo endurance feat was the latest in a growing list of fundraising efforts from the Expedition Limitless team, which aims to raise £200,000 over two years to support children and families across the Isle of Man.

Martin has previously supported expeditions to the Arctic, Canada’s Yukon Territory and organised extreme fundraising endurance events across the Island and says this was one of his most personal and physically demanding challenges to date. 

He was aiming to swim continuously for 24 hours, but a shoulder injury meant he was forced to stop after 16 hours.

Martin says while it wasn't exactly what he'd hoped to achieve, he believes the experience shows the power of resilience and determination:

The donation link is still available here.

And you can hear the full interview with Martin in this Newscast episode.