Serving Officer in the Royal Engineers, renowned adventurer, and world record holder. George is continuing to dedicate time and effort pushing boundaries and creating challenges not attempted before. After taking a severe injury playing rugby, swimming to France highlights for him; how, with determination, that anything really is possible.

George Redman served six years in the Military with postings including 4 SCOTS, 42 Cdo RM and NATO ARRC with various deployments overseas. George now works at UBS as an Equities Trader. He remains actively involved in veteran networks supporting those transitioning from the Forces and seeking employment in Finance.

“To mark such a significant anniversary of DDay I wanted to do something no one had ever done before. So why not swim the route they traveled all those years ago. We owe so much to all those who took part in the Allied invasion and hopefully by completing this challenge and raising money for veterans we can in some small way show our appreciation.”

Nadège Anturo is the organiser of the DDay Swing Festival, which is part of the commemorations for the 80th Anniversary. Having close ties to the British Military and Government representatives in Paris, and being a resident of Lion-sur-Mer, she has been involved with SWORD Swim since the inception of the event.

Julie Kilvert-Jones has been involved in supporting military and government activities in Normandy for over a decade. Having assisted George on previous adventures and military studies of DDay, Julie is again looking after the expedition and ensuring they have the support they need whilst in France.

As a historian with an interest in both world wars and rugby, Peter has worked with Rugby For Heroes on a number of commemorative projects. After the swim is completed, he will lead the group inland from SWORD Beach to rendezvous at Pegasus Bridge, following in the footsteps of DDay legend Piper Bill Mullin.

Darren McLaughlin, a seasoned skipper from New Zealand, brings extensive sailing navigation and event management expertise to our campaign. He spent nine years circumnavigating the globe with his family, honing his skills before settling in the UK. Now, based there, he operates large yachts and organizes prestigious marine events like the ‘Round The Island Race’ and ‘Fastnet Race’. His achievements include leading the ‘Round Britain & Ireland Race’ victoriously in 2014. A member of the Household Division Yacht Club, Darren pairs his sailing prowess with a business analyst role in Asset Management. His strategic planning and support are pivotal to our success.

Nigel Bailey, at 59 (plus 2), brings his military background and passion for sailing to support SWORD Swim as a boat captain. A former reservist in the Royal Corps of Transport, Nigel’s military experience and skills link him well to this event. His commitment extends beyond the water, having supported and participated in various fundraising events. Nigel is currently the Captain for the Legend Owners Association showcasing his leadership skills and dedication. With precision and discipline, Nigel ensures smooth sailing for SWORD Swim. He’s the dependable backup who will steer the challenge to success, reflecting his unwavering commitment and expertise.

George is a dynamic and dedicated sailor who is also in the Royal Artillery Reserve. After completing his masters, George is embracing new challenges. As a skipper, he navigated the Thames, participating in the Royal Regatta. His reservist adventures include sailing around Iceland and the Solent. Now a Powerboat and Jet Ski Instructor, he aims to work on super yachts. Recently, George sailed from Tenerife to Portsmouth with the Tall Ship Youth Trust, empowering disadvantaged youth through sailing. This event marks his first channel crossing and trip to Normandy.