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August 13 2009 » SWCC in the NewsSkeena Swim » Times Colonist

Ottawa native swimming entire length of Skeena River

PRINCE RUPERT — Ali Howard is only 26 kilometres from the end of her mega-swim.

By Saturday afternoon, she will emerge from the Skeena River as the first person to swim B.C.‘s second longest river in its entirety.

She will reach her final checkpoint at the Pacific Cannery docks in Port Edward near Prince Rupert, where a community banquet will be set up to celebrate her 28-day trip.

“We’ve had a hectic past few days. Long, long swim days and lots of cold water,” Howard said via satellite phone to her audioblog on Wednesday night. “Energy’s lagging, but I’m happy for everybody’s support.”

The Ottawa native said she gets a boost of adrenalin from drivers who honk, whistle and wave at her as they pass by on the highway.

The water polo player and resort chef, 33, began the 610 kilometre swim on July 21.

During the 28-day venture, Howard swam against Class Four whitewater rapids and navigated the river’s narrow canyons with the help of staff and professionals including a first-aid attendant, videographer and chef.

The crew is following her with equipment on whitewater rafts or canoes.

The expedition is costing about $30,000 with money raised from donations and sponsors.

Howard undertook the swim to raise awareness about the threats to the Skeena watershed.

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