Year 9 student Sebastian Yates has made waves in the 2024/25 Banana Boat New Zealand Ocean Swim Series — competing in stunning locations like Lake Tikitapu, Lake Taupō and the Hauraki Gulf, and swimming distances between 1km and 5km. Over the season, he swam an incredible 24 kilometres, placing 1st in his age group (non-wetsuit category) and 2nd overall, even against swimmers using wetsuits.

Now, Sebastian is taking on a new kind of challenge — one that’s close to his heart.

On Sunday 22 June, Sebastian will dive into the pool not for a medal, but to raise funds for Canteen, a charity that supports young people living with cancer. For every $2 raised, Sebastian will swim one 25m length. His goal? To raise $1000 — that’s 500 lengths or 12.5km — all in one swim!

“I want to do something that pushes me physically, but also helps other teens who are facing much harder challenges.”

Let’s help Sebastian turn his swim into support.

Donate in person at the Waiopehu College office

Or donate online via:

https://fundraise.canteen.org.nz/.../bandannas-in-motion

Every dollar makes a difference. Let’s cheer him on and support a great cause.

Article added: Monday 09 June 2025