Big Dreams In Bondi: Young Ned Wieland Sets His Eyes On Crossing The English Channel

Ned Wieland has dreamed of being the youngest Australian to cross the English Channel since he was 12. As he approaches his 16th birthday in July, the Bondi teen is closer than ever before to ticking this goal off his bucket list.

The inspirational young Australian has been swimming since he was about 3 years old. Successfully juggling his full-time school life attending Waverly College and his training, Ned has committed up to 14 hours a week to prepare himself for the record-breaking feat.

Where the snooze button is the best friend for many of us, Ned is an early riser and fits his essential training into what he calls a "pretty full on" schedule, but we think that’s an understatement.

"I set the alarm for 4:45am, jump in the pool at 5:00am, swim about two hours, go to school and then do a two-hour gym session after that".

We’ve all at some stage put off working on our dreams as life gets busy, but Ned has managed to make the time despite his other obligations. The motivation Ned shows is astonishing.

The R U OK? charity is a cause that’s close to Ned’s heart and alongside his love for swimming, his fundraising aspirations drive his enthusiasm. R U OK? actively raises awareness of mental health, and promotes the idea that a conversation can change a life.

"Water is where I’m happy and I think everyone deserves to find their own happy place".

"I feel really passionate about tackling mental illness after losing a dear friend a few years back," he said.

Ned’s already tackled various open water long distance events in Australia including the Port to Pub, a 25km ultra-marathon swim from Leighton Beach to Rottnest Island in Perth.

He also competed in the Cold Camp in Melbourne, proving his endurance as he swam for 8 hours in 15 degree Celsius water.

Ned has the support of his coach, his father Mark Wieland. He has also been mentored by the oldest man that holds the record of swimming the English Channel, Cyril Baldock. Cyril is currently 72 years old and completed the challenge in 2014.

"I like to help young people taking on the challenge," Cyril said, "Ned has shown fantastic determination and I really believe he will do well".

When it comes to crossing the English Channel, having mental strength is just as important as the physical element. The cold temperature, strong tides and massive swells are dangerous obstacles to face.

So what’s the greatest advice the seasoned swimmer has offered young Ned? "If anything goes wrong, just to remember that you've done the work and it will come good."

Cyril sums up what it means for Ned to succeed in his latest challenge perfectly, "Winning is getting to the French side and picking up a little pebble to keep for life; that's really what it's all about".

Ned will begin his journey from Shakespeare Beach near Dover following his birthday in July.

Best of luck Ned!