Escaping Alcatraz for Inspire

Amy Russ

When Marlborough’s Mark Davis accepted a challenge from his brother Aaron to swim from Alcatraz Island to the San Francisco shoreline, he imagined a great adventure that would push him beyond his comfort zone. Six months later, he had not only escaped Alcatraz but raised more than $22,000 for Inspire Foundation Marlborough.

On August 8, Mark, chairman of Inspire Foundation Marlborough, completed the 33rd annual Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim – a gruelling 2.4km open-water event renowned for strong currents, unpredictable conditions and its infamous shark reputation.

With six months to prepare, Mark trained three mornings a week at Stadium 2000, building up to 3km sessions, as well as swimming in Lochmara Bay to experience colder, open-water conditions.

The true scale of the challenge only became apparent during a training swim in San Francisco the day before the event. “It wasn’t until then that I realised for the first time that I may not complete the swim, as it is a very demanding stretch of water.”

Race day brought its own intensity, with Mark plunging into the bay alongside 632 other competitors. Swimmers jumped directly from a boat into rough water and strong currents, jostling for position as they made their way to the start.

“What I hadn’t expected was the additional turbulence from the swimmers as people jostle for position. The heart was racing with lots of nerves and adrenaline.”

While the water was warmer than his Marlborough swims, the currents proved the biggest challenge. “It felt like a washing machine and you would get a little queasy from the motion.”

Throughout the swim, Aaron stayed close, helping Mark stay on course as he drifted in the powerful currents. About 45 minutes in Mark began to believe he could finish. “I drifted off course numerous times and after a while the breakwater and the city became closer. I just kept thinking; I can’t let all my supporters down. I need to finish.”

After one hour, one minute and 11 seconds, Mark emerged from the water, legs wobbling but triumphant. He placed 277th overall in the wetsuit category and was greeted at the finish line by an unexpected cheering squad from Marlborough, Rob and Lynne Hammond, who happened to be in San Francisco.

“It was absolutely the worst swim of my life because of the challenging conditions, but also very rewarding that I did manage to escape from Alcatraz.”

For Mark, the greatest reward was the community support behind the fundraiser.

“I hoped to raise a few thousand dollars, but in the end we raised over $22,000 from some incredibly generous supporters who all thought I was crazy. I am incredibly proud to have raised all that money for the foundation and the level of support has been overwhelming.”

The funds will help Inspire continue supporting local families and nurturing talented young people. “We have some amazing young people in Marlborough. We hope they will inspire others who follow to chase their dreams.”