McCardel to attempt world record swim at Melbourne consumer pool and spa show

Australian ultra-marathon swimmer Chloe McCardel is attempting a world-first indoor swim of 16 hours non-stop in a free-standing swim-spa. The attempt will be streamed live via the internet from midnight 31 January 2014 AEDT.

McCardel will swim the equivalent of one-and-a-half crossings of the English Channel, swimming into a series of water jets for resistance at the SPASA Pool & Spa and Outdoor Living Expo at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre on Saturday.

"This is the first time that anyone in the world can individually tune-in and watch one of my world record attempts as it's actually happening," she says. "Because I am in the swim spa, this is a great opportunity for anyone to come to the expo, gather around and see a world-record being set. Those who can't make it to the Melbourne Exhibition Centre can log onto the live stream and share in the experience."

McCardel is well credentialed to set this world-first record, having already completed six solo crossings of the English Channel, including two double solo crossings, and an attempt to swim from Cuba to the US (170+km ) without a shark cage, in June 2013.

She will adhere to the regulations set-down by the English Channel Swimming Association, although given the unique nature of setting a world-first record, certain regulations are modified to meet the conditions of indoor tank swimming. She will not be allowed any intentional touching or standing on the bottom or sides of the spa, nor is intentional touching of other people allowed. An independent representative who is a trained and active sports official will observe the swim to ensure that the record guidelines are adhered to.

The record is expected to be reached on Saturday 1 February at 4pm.

All the details, the live video stream, as well as the rules and regulations of the record attempt can be found by visiting www.spasashow.com.au.