Teens aim to cover up to 100km each swimming for Clay at Hawkesbury Oasis

A group of local teens will swim as far as 100km each this month hoping to raise thousands of dollars for ReachOut in memory of a friend lost to suicide.

Gemma King and her friends will be swimming throughout March as part of the Laps for Life campaign, which helps ReachOut ensure young people have the support they need to be happy and well.

“They are taking part in the fundraiser in memory of their friend, Clayton Peacock, who was just 14 years old when he died last year,” says Macquarie MP Susan Templeman.

“Clayton has been remembered as a polite, caring and respectful young man who was a keen sportsman and cherished friend.

“His death affected so many people – his footy teammates, Hills Sports High peers and primary school mates – and by doing this fundraiser, his friends are helping to ensure support can get to where it’s really needed to help save lives,” said the MP.

Ms Templeman met with the group at Hawkesbury Oasis in South Windsor recently, where they will each complete their own lap goals throughout the rest of this month.

“I’ve done Laps for Life before. I’m doing it to raise money for mental health, and this year I am dedicating it to my mate, Clayton,” Gemma, who will be swimming 100km, said.

“We were in the same class at school together. Our team has raised more than $4300 so far, and we’d like to raise heaps more.”

And the team is determined to meet their goal.

“The flood may have interrupted some of their swims, but these teens are determined to hit their target,” Ms Templeman said.

To donate to the team, visit https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/gemmaking/laps-for-life