By Isle of Wight Observer
Island resident, Ian Wallace, recently completed his first-ever marathon for a cause close to his heart. He competed in the 2025 Southampton Marathon, raising £800 in support of the Isle of Wight Sea Pool Project.
In 2022, Ian was struggling with anxiety and depression that conventional treatments weren’t easing. Working in mental health himself, Ian explored several methods to improve his well-being. In October, he turned to the sea, joining experienced cold-water swimmers for his first dip.
Though not a strong swimmer, Ian describes the experience as “transformational” and says it had an immediate, lasting effect on his mental health.
Since then, sea swimming has become a regular part of Ian’s life, bringing structure, community, and a renewed sense of purpose. Inspired by the mental and physical benefits he experienced, he began running and completed a Couch to 5k programme. After spotting a Southampton Marathon advert by chance, he signed up, later committing to more, including The Needles Marathon, and Walk the Wight.
Ian trained for five months and now has his sights set on ultra-marathons and more fund-raising events. He said: “The IW Sea Pool Project means so much to me. I’m still not a confident swimmer, but I know first-hand how powerful sea immersion is for mental health. A tidal sea pool will make the sea accessible and safe for more people. I want to help make it a reality.”
