Α Cretan athlete has vowed to swim around 25km off the coast of northern Crete in a fundraising effort for a school dedicated to young kids and adults with special needs.
Kostas Varouchakis, well known for his philanthropic and social work, announced recently that he will start his swimming marathon soon from the beautiful Balos beach — world-famous for its light blue waters — to Gramvoussa island and on to the town of Kissamos.
“I calculate that I will be swimming for 8 to 10 hours. According to Google Maps, the distance is around 25km. I train myself daily to achieve that goal,” he told Greek daily To Ethnos.
The 45-year-old hopes to raise money for a school for kids and adults with special needs located at Koutoufiana, near the town of Kissamos.
Around 240 students, aged between 13 to 22, suffering from mental illnesses, autism and other disabilities are studying in the school, which is the largest such public education institution in Greece.
It provides students with theoretical background and practical experience on subjects such as gardening, ceramics, carpentry, plumbing and cooking. The study lasts 6 years.
Varouchakis hopes to raise awareness about the school and its needs and attract funds.
He said that it is a duty of everyone to support and upgrade the school and he has already received encouraging messages from many people in Crete and beyond.
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