Australian endurance swimmer John Van Wisse throws in the towel on Loch Ness record attempt but will attempt the monster challenge again next year
Australian endurance athlete John Van Wisse has conceded defeat in efforts to revive a world record attempt to swim the length of Loch Ness - but is vowing to be back.
The internationally-renowned competitor aborted last Saturday’s swim just 4.3 kilometres after leaving the shores of Fort Augustus.
Suffering from a debilitating viral infection, the 50-year-old took medication and battled through the week to regain full health.
An improvement in his condition saw Mr Van Wisse travel back to Fort Augustus yesterday (Wednesday) for a training swim in the loch’s icy waters.
In the aftermath, lingering sickness and terrible overhead conditions persuaded him to abandon thoughts of another attempt.
Under organisers’ rules, he had until Saturday to make the record attempt but has now set his sights on a return visit next year.
He told the Courier: “I’m really gutted not to be able to get back in the water this time, but I’m just not 100 per cent.
“It was record cold temperatures, so it’s off I’m afraid.
“But I’m absolutely determined to come back next year. I’ve succeeded once on the loch and failed this time, so I’ll come back for the decider!”
