Jamberoo’s Alan Swan never thought he’d be part of the gruelling George Bass Marathon, but the experience became a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and shared effort, proving that teamwork truly makes the dream work.

For Alan, the challenge wasn’t just physical, it was a test of mental grit. “I’m not exactly a sea creature,” he jokes. “I’m more comfortable on land. The deep-sea crew changeovers were especially daunting for me.”

Yet, it was in those moments of discomfort that Alan discovered the power of his eight-member crew. “Rowing is all about working together,” he reflects. “It’s not about individual effort; it’s about rhythm, flow, and trusting your teammates.”

Kiama Surf Life Saving Club George Bass Marathon Team proves teamwork makes the dream work

The George Bass Marathon is legendary for a reason. Over seven days, crews face relentless rotations, rowing in shifts that challenge their endurance and spirit. Long days mean swapping every 20 minutes, with equal rest, but shorter days are even more punishing, with six-person teams only getting 10 minute rest periods.

“The short days were harder,” Alan says. “There’s barely any time to recover before you’re back in the boat.”

Behind the scenes, the land support crews were equally critical. They moved boats, set up camp, and prepared meals, ensuring the rowers could focus on the water. “Our support team was incredible,” Alan says. “They took care of everything. It made all the difference.”

The physical toll was immense, blistered hands, sore feet, blistered and bruised backsides from the unrelenting motion of the boat. But Alan’s good humour carried him through. “One guy told me to use a tub of Vaseline with a spatula,” he laughs. “That advice saved me!”

Seven Days of Blood Sweat and Tears and Blisters

Amidst the struggle, there were moments of magic. “One day, everything just clicked,” Alan recalls. “We found our rhythm, the boat was flying, and the coastline was stunning. I thought, how lucky am I to be part of this?”

Support from sponsors like Ray White Real Estate, Kiama Lions Club, and Boab Marine was vital. “Boab Marine provided our support boat,” Alan shares, “and the funds helped us secure a new set of oars. For smaller clubs like Kiama, that’s huge.”

The marathon’s 50th anniversary made the event even more special. “Rowers from the original race, now in their seventies, joined in,” Alan says. “Seeing them still out there was inspiring.”

For Alan, the experience wasn’t just about personal achievement. “If one person wasn’t fully committed, it wouldn’t have worked,” he says. “It was all about everyone coming together.”

The George Bass Marathon has left Alan with a new sense of confidence and possibility. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve done in a long time,” he says. “But it’s shown me that stepping out of your comfort zone is where you grow.”

As he considers his next adventure, one thing is certain: Alan Swan is ready to keep testing his limits, proving that with teamwork and determination, anything is possible.