200,000 strokes for PASYKAF. Charalampos Taiganidis swims 151 kilometres in pursuit of a new world record, supporting people with cancer experience.

On September 17, 2026*, Paralympic swimming gold medallist Charalampos Taiganidis will attempt to break another world record by swimming 151 kilometres non-stop from Coral Bay Beach in Paphos to the Larnaca Nautical Club.

His most ambitious open-water challenge to date will begin at 6:00 p.m. and is expected to last approximately 60 hours. The swim is dedicated to the Cyprus Association of Cancer Patients and Friends (PASYKAF), which this year marks 40 years of supporting people with cancer experience and their families. Through this initiative, the athlete aims to raise funds for the Association.

XM Group is the Major Sponsor of the event, supporting Charalampos Taiganidis in this important initiative for PASYKAF. XM Group has consistently supported the Association in recent years, donating medical equipment and helping fund its Services and Programmes through sponsorship of PASYKAF events.

The attempt will target the world record for the “Longest Unassisted Ocean Swim, Current Neutral”, meaning the longest unassisted ocean swim under current-neutral conditions. It will be conducted in accordance with the official rules of the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA). The athlete will swim wearing only a standard swimsuit, a swimming cap, and goggles, without a wetsuit or any physical contact with a boat or other people. The swim will be continuous, with no breaks for sleep, and food and drinks will be provided exclusively using a pole or rope. Official observers will document the entire attempt.

Charalampos Taiganidis is one of Greece’s most accomplished Paralympians, with a long and distinguished sporting career. He has won 10 Paralympic medals and 14 world titles, and has set 24 world records. Through his latest challenge in Cyprus, he symbolically dedicates every stroke to supporting PASYKAF.

“Every stroke of this journey is dedicated to PASYKAF and to people with cancer experience and their families. Through my effort, I want to make a meaningful contribution to the Association, which this year marks 40 years of continuous support. I invite everyone to become part of this journey, turning every stroke into an act of solidarity,” says Taiganidis.

200,000 strokes for PASYKAF

It is estimated that Charalampos will need approximately 200,000 strokes to complete the route. PASYKAF invites the public to support this ambitious challenge and become part of a journey of giving from Paphos to Larnaca.

Through the JCC donation page, everyone can choose the amount they wish to contribute. Every donation, regardless of its size, makes a meaningful difference.

All funds raised will support the Association’s Services and Programmes, which are provided free of charge to people with cancer experience and their families throughout Cyprus.

Click here to visit the donation page and support Charalampos Taiganidis’ effort.

PASYKAF extends its heartfelt thanks to Charalampos Taiganidis for this exceptional initiative and his generous support. Through this effort, sport becomes a collective expression of solidarity and giving.

Special thanks also go to his coach, Georgios Adam, for his invaluable contribution to preparing for and carrying out this challenge. Having spent countless hours training alongside Charalampos in the water, he continues to stand by him at every stage of this demanding journey, with dedication and an unwavering focus on the goal.

PASYKAF warmly thanks XM Group for its longstanding trust and invaluable support, as well as Alcon – See Brilliantly and all the sponsors, supporters and partner organisations helping to make this exceptional initiative possible.

The swim is held under the auspices of the Minister of Justice and Public Order of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Kostas Fytiris, the Hellenic Paralympic Committee and the Municipality of Paphos.

The Cyprus Reserve Frogmen Association (SEVAK OUK) is a valued partner, helping ensure the swim is carried out safely by providing an inflatable boat and skippers, as well as assisting with the athlete’s food and drink supplies.

Also contributing are Mr Vakchos Avaratzis, through Papasails Investment Ltd, who will provide a sailing boat to guide the swimmer along the route, and Medelixi, which will supply specialised recovery devices.

Together, we can give even more!

* The start date may be moved to September 18, depending on weather conditions. We will confirm and announce the final start date two to three days before the swim begins.