Welcome, Oly!

Morritt’s greets the record-breaking environmentalist who will be swimming around Grand Cayman

There are a few new faces around Morritt’s. Owners and guests may have spotted a friendly red-headed, Dorset-native around the property. Oliver Rush and his team touched down last Friday, making the 11-hour journey from the United Kingdom to Grand Cayman. His mission? To embark on a record-breaking swim that will take him around the entire island.

Part fish to those who know him, Oly is a serious swimmer and environmentalist, spreading awareness about ocean pollution and plastic waste. By partnering with local charity Plastic Free Cayman, Oly hopes to raise much-needed funds for the non-profit’s education efforts. Oly also intends on visiting schools around the island to get students involved in the discussion on cleaning up the world’s oceans.

Dubbed “The Grand Swim”, the 65-mile journey around Grand Cayman is expected to take place at the end of May. Morritt’s is a sponsor of the swim, and is currently providing accommodation for Oly and his team as they train and prepare for the big day.

“When Morritt’s was made aware of Mr Rush’s noble mission, we knew we wanted to offer our support however we could,” said Morritt’s Sales Director, Chris Butcher.

“Small ripples can effect great change,” continued Mr Butcher. “Morritt’s is honoured to be part of what we feel is just the start of a larger conversation to be had on keeping our shores clean.”

The swim – which has never been attempted before – is estimated to take approximately 30 hours. Though Oly has participated in major swims along the Jurassic Coast and around the Isle of Wight, Cayman’s soaring temperatures and sea creatures are expected to present their own unique set of challenges.

“Sunstroke and jellyfish are a concern,” admitted Olly. “However we’re training hard every day and are dedicated to the cause. We appreciate the support we’ve received so far, especially from Chris and his team at Morritt’s. Without the accommodation we simply couldn’t have done this! In fact the entire island so far has been welcoming and kind.”

If you would like to stay up-to-date on the Grand Swim, or support Oly’s mission, you can visit his GoFundMe page.

Credit: The Biome Project Oly describes his mission to clean up the planet’s oceans and beaches.