Watch: The Incredible Moment Neil Agius Completes His 140-Kilometre Swim At Għar Lapsi
Ultra-endurance swimmer and former Olympian Neil Agius completed his epic swim last night, arriving in Għar Lapsi after three consecutive days in the water.
Just before 8:30pm, his team announced that Neil might finish his swim within the next hour at Għar Lapsi.
“Neil is anticipating the cold during his last feed and he is considering Għar Lapsi even though he has his sights to keep going, but there is the possibility they will stop in Għar Lapsi in the next hour,” two members of his team shared.
Crowds had already gathered in Wied iż-Żurrieq to catch a glimpse of Neil as he swam past, and many decided to head to Għar Lapsi to cheer him on if he finished there.
At Għar Lapsi, Neil’s team began preparing for his arrival as more people gathered, eager to welcome and support him.
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As Neil approached Għar Lapsi, his team revealed that the accompanying rib boat couldn’t enter the bay due to the rough waters.
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This meant that the crowd had to help guide Neil using lights from the shore, while swimmers went out to direct him without physically touching him.
Shortly after, the crowd was informed that Neil was just 50 metres away. As he neared the shore, he climbed up the ladder and slowly sat on the chair prepared for him
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The crowd held their breath as Neil emerged from the water after three long days of swimming.
Moments later, they erupted in cheers as Neil solidified his world record having finished the swim, visibly emotional from the achievement.
After being assessed by the medical team on site, Neil made his way to an ambulance for a more in-depth checkup.
Prime Minister Robert Abela, Education Minister Clifton Grima, and PN MP David Agius were also present at Għar Lapsi to congratulate Neil on his incredible feat.
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Speaking to the press, the legendary swimmer shared his emotions: “The swim wasn’t for me; it was for Malta,” he said before heading home to rest, closing with a heartfelt “Viva Malta.”
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The night ended with the crowd giving Neil a hero’s send-off, cheering and clapping as he was driven home to recover.
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Well done Neil, you’ve made Malta proud!