In early September, Rory will embark on the daring solo swim across the 21-mile stretch of the English Channel. His adventure is the culmination of months of intense training and unwavering dedication. Coached by renowned open-water swimmer Nikki Pope, whose impressive swim credentials include multiple Channel crossings and a track record of over 18 relay teams.

Rory has already smashed through several challenging milestones. Since November 2024, he has completed three solo qualifying swims, including a gruelling six-hour stint in Liverpool Docks at under 15°C, an 8-hour swim in Dover harbour in under 14°C, backed up by a further 6 hours the next day.

His commitment doesn’t stop there. Rory has also completed nine relay qualifiers and other back-to-back swims including tough swims on New Years Eve and New Years Day in Fuerteventura, where he had to endure frequent jellyfish stings and vomiting. By the time he reaches France he will have swam more than a million metres in his build up. Most recently, he conquered a 17-kilometre solo swim across Lake Windermere in just under six hours, proving his readiness for the big challenge ahead.

Rory completed work experience at Vespertec in June and is the son of co-founder and Director Phillip Kaye. His hard work and commitment during this time, all while studying and training for the swim, impressed the team, and Vespertec is proud to be supporting Rory’s cause.

The money raised will go to Mencap’s Family Engagement Project, which supports over 60 children with SEND and their families, providing them with safe, enriching opportunities that can transform their lives. Along with Vespertec’s support, Derbyshire sports company Huub Design has provided equipment to help with the swim. In June, the Huub team sat down with Rory and Phil to discuss the challenge, which you can listen to here.

Rory says; “I’m both excited and a little bit scared to swim the English Channel solo in September, it’s going to push me to my limits. Swimming has given me so much in life and I think everyone should get the opportunity to learn to swim. That’s why it will give me extra motivation knowing that the funds raised will give SEND children under five years old the opportunity to swim. Please help by donating and sharing my JustGiving page. Thank you!”

Phil Kaye, Rory’s Dad and Director at Vespertec, says; “We’re so proud of Rory. He has been so focused with his preparations, training six times a week, he never misses a session, even though most are early morning before school and he pushes himself to get the most out every swim. He’s always positive and wants to help others. It’s no exaggeration to say swimming has changed his life and he is really motivated to raise funds for Mencap.”

Mary O’Hagan, Executive Director of Fundraising at Mencap says: “Good luck Rory in taking on this incredible challenge. We are truly inspired by the courage and dedication you have shown and what a fantastic way to mark turning 16 – a truly remarkable young man. Mencap simply could not do the work we do without the support of our fundraisers, who commit wholeheartedly to challenges like these. Rory, we are all cheering you on!”

Swim Coach, Nikki Pope expressed her pride in Rory’s achievements; “Rory is the David Beckham of our swim squad.  He trains longer and harder than anyone else. Rory shows that massive challenges can be achieved through dedication, determination and working within the right community. I’m immensely proud of Rory and we are all looking forward to supporting him between now and September!”

As well as marking an extraordinary personal achievement, the funds raised will directly benefit families through a new pool-based program. The project will fund the Aqua-nature pool, a dedicated space where children with SEND can build water confidence and enjoy fun, therapeutic swimming sessions. Each session will be staffed by qualified disability swimming coaches and lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for up to five families per session, with plans to support around 60 families annually, especially during school holidays.

Support Rory’s epic swim and fundraising journey today https://www.justgiving.com/page/rory-kaye–swimming-solo-16.