Swimming the Seven Seas
On this week's Sportshour we hear from single mum and open water swimmer Beth French, who attempted a physical challenge that no-one had ever done before. She set out to conquer Oceans Seven, a challenge consisting of the seven most dangerous sea-channels in the world. Her efforts have been turned into a film called Against the Tides and she tells us about her journey, coming face to face with jellyfish and sharks, battling extreme conditions and deciding to give up with the finishing line in sight. All whilst living with M.E. (a.k.a. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). We also go live to Paris for the end of the Tour De France and discuss who will win the yellow jersey. Sporting Witness heads back thirty years to the closest finish in the races history, when American Greg Lemond took the yellow jersey by just 8 seconds. Whilst still playing in the NHL, Nathan Dempsey developed Parkinson's disease, a degenerative disorder that affects the nervous system. He believes playing hockey played a part in his condition and shares his story. Laura Weston from the Women's Sport Trust joins us to speak about how more women can become involved in sport following the spectacular Summer of Women's Sport. She answers the question about if barriers are still in place for women. Photo: Beth French celebrating after swimming (Beth French website)