On February 22nd at 6:20 AM, Gerrard and his team began the epic Rottnest Channel swim from Cottesloe Beach, WA. In a field of over 2,560 swimmers, including both solo participants and teams, accompanied by an impressive array of kayaks and support boats, they achieved remarkable results.

Initially, favourable conditions allowed for solid progress. Unfortunately, by 1:30 PM, the winds and shifting tide intensified, presenting the team with extremely challenging conditions. At 10.5 hours into the swim, having covered 18.6 kilometres and with Rottnest Island in sight, the race organisers halted their event as they were unable to make the final cutoff time. Despite the disappointment, Gerrard and his team made history by swimming further than any totally blind person (from birth), and as ever, Gerrard is grateful for having had this opportunity. 

In July 2025, Gerrard became the first totally blind person to complete the 20 Bridges swim. It covered 48.8 kilometres, taking him under some of New York City’s most iconic bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and the George Washington Bridge, among others.

What made this swim even more unique is that Gerrard and his team chose to take on the challenge at night, adding an extra layer of excitement and complexity.

Gerrard’s team was made up of experienced guide swimmers Hayden Armstrong, Jo Smallacombe, Phil Edwards, and Nick Barclay, who provided crucial support throughout the swim. 

Gerrard has made history, swimming further than any person totally blind from birth in the treacherous waters of the English Channel. He attempted the Channel twice. The first was in August 2024, coming within just 3 miles of completing the full 34+ km crossing from Dover to Cape Gris-Nez. The second was a year later, when he swam for over 12 hours, covering 42km, again to be thwarted by conditions.

Facing bone-chilling temperatures, relentless tides, and the physical toll of hour after hour in open water, Gerrard pushed beyond his known limits. Swimming in unison with his guides, he battled the Channel’s notorious conditions with unwavering determination and heart. Though shy of landfall, his extraordinary journeys stand as landmark achievements — setting a distance record for any blind swimmer from birth and inspiring anyone who’s ever been told “you can’t”.

Para-climbing will make its debut in Los Angeles in 2028. Gerrard is aiming for his fourth Paralympics because … why not?

“Huge thanks to everyone supporting me on this journey — I’m excited to keep pushing my limits and work towards Paralympic success!” -GG

Gerrard lives and breathes adventure. From daring attempts on the slopes of Mt. Everest to conquering ultra-marathons, diving ocean depths, soaring the skies as a pilot, plus countless other exploits, his life is a testament to fearless exploration. He proves that you don’t need sight to embrace the thrill of the unknown. His unwavering determination and hunger for new challenges ignite the adventurous spirit in all who hear his story – proving that true vision transcends physical boundaries.