For 29 years, Alcatraz Island was one of the world’s most infamous prisons, housing some of America’s most serious offenders with no successful escapes.
Between 1934 and 1963 the prison was at various times home to some of America’s most notorious offenders including gangster Al Capone and Robert Franklin Stroud, the birdman of Alcatraz.
But this Thursday (November 15) a group of South Oxhey swimmers will attempt to ‘escape’ from The Rock by swimming an equivalent to the 1.5 miles from the island in San Francisco Bay to the mainland.
The 16 swimmers, lifeguards and receptionists from the Sir James Altham Aquabats Club will attempt to complete 195 lengths of the pool hoping to raise hundreds of pounds for Children in Need and are looking for sponsors.
Gary Foley, manager at the Sir James Altham pool, said "I have just visited Alcatraz on my summer holiday and loved it, so this is a perfect way to remember the experience and will also be extra fun for our Aquabats Club swimmers while they help to raise money for Children in Need.
"Our lifeguards and receptionists will also lend a hand as the swimmers try to complete the 195 length Alcatraz Challenge."
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