Ex-Winnipegger taking second shot at Grand Beach-to-Gimli fundraising swim

Jonathon Fenton, a former Winnipeg resident, is preparing for his second attempt at the Grand Beach-to-Gimli fundraising swim across Lake Winnipeg. Last summer, the 62-year-old made it 16 kilometres before shoulder problems forced him to stop. Now, as a two-time cancer survivor, Fenton hopes to complete the 26-kilometre swim and raise money for cancer care and research through his Jonny’s Big Swim fundraiser.

He will begin the swim Saturday morning, weather and water conditions permitting, with a possible stop at Willow Point, shortening the route to about 22 kilometres. Fenton's previous attempt raised $42,000 for various foundations, with his current total at around $33,000. He draws inspiration from his past experiences and wants to provide hope to those currently undergoing cancer treatment.

Fenton, who has been swimming for 30 years, has been working with a physiotherapist to strengthen his shoulders ahead of the upcoming swim.