Harlee Elite’s Alex Clarke to swim 40km, raising funds for mental health with Beyond Blue

The head coach who trains an elite group of swimmers at Canterbury-Bankstown’s pools will be diving in the deep end for a cause close to his heart.

Alex will be swimming 800 laps for Beyond Blue.

The head coach who trains an elite group of swimmers at Canterbury-Bankstown’s pools will be diving in the deep end for a cause close to his heart.

Harlee Elite’s Alex Clarke, who coaches his squads from the pool deck at Revesby, Birrong and Roselands Leisure and Aquatic Centres, said he’s taking the plunge to raise much-needed funds for Beyond Blue.

The head coach will be swimming 40km – the equivalent of 800 laps – between sunrise and sunset at Max Parker Leisure Centre on November 25 to raise $3000 for the mental health organisation.

“We all know of family members or people in the community who have been affected by mental health,” Mr Clarke said.

“My day of pain in the pool is the least I can do, and it will never compare to what people go through when they lose a loved one to this illness.”

Swim coach Alex Clarke will swim 800 laps at Max Parker Leisure and Aquatic Centre in Revesby on November 25. Picture: Tim Hunter.

The father of two to Charlee and Harper – the inspiration behind his business name – said this challenge was important as mental health struggles “could be affecting a family member and you wouldn’t know”.

“I work with young adults and as coaches we aren’t just the swim coach we’re the mentor, the psychologist, as sometimes we see them more than their parents do” he said.

Alex Clarke has trained hundreds of talented swimmers in Canterbury-Bankstown, including Henri Carrera from Padstow.

“It’s important for you to communicate the right words to them. I have a big family and friends and over the years it’s been an important topic that has affected a lot of people so it’s very close to my heart.”

Mr Clarke said the 800 laps would be staggered throughout the event and has completed daily swims and CrossFit sessions in preparation for the big day.

“I felt with my capabilities it was a good distance … it’s pretty ludicrous to do that type of load on your arms but as I said my day of pain does not relate to what people go through with losing someone to mental health,” he said.

“I encourage anyone to come on down and support me with my laps and to get involved in any way possible,” he said.

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said he was proud of Alex’s contribution and hoped to be poolside to cheer him on.

“Alex is a role model and an inspiration to hundreds of young swimmers in the community,” Mr El-Hayek said.

The ‘Making a Splash Beyond the Blue Line’ fundraiser event will take place at Max Parker Leisure and Aquatic Centre and include a barbecue, raffle, kids’ activities and live music.