Determined Swimmer Sets Another World Record in Java Earthquake Relief Effort

Central Java, Indonesia. To help spark interest in World Food Programme relief efforts for the recent Indonesian earthquake, marathon swimmer Monte Monfore accomplished a world first and new record near the quake's epicenter. The American braved stormy seas swimming 12.5 kilometers in the Karimunjawa National Marine Park located north of Central Java in the South China Sea.

The world record ocean swimmer began his challenge under the stars on Menyawakan Island at 4:43am. "I'm beginning my swim in darkness to reflect the devastation of the earthquake and the dire circumstances of those still suffering from the tragedy. Almost 6000 people lost their lives and as many as 650,000 people may have been left homeless or displaced," Monte said before diving into the dark sea from the pier of event sponsor, Kura Kura Resort.

The native Californian who lives on the neighboring island of Bali exhibited courage, determination, and ocean swimming skill. A fluorescent light stick attached to his swimsuit enabled support boats and camera crew to keep sight of the swimmer in the pre-dawn darkness. Encountering high winds and rough seas from the start he was forced to swim against the current for nearly the first two hours.

"I plan to finish my swim after sunrise to represent the hope that those suffering from the tragedy will receive the urgent help they need. Once again this beautiful country has been hit by a natural disaster and the Indonesian people need our support," Monte concluded in his pre-swim announcement.

As the sun rose over choppy seas the swimmer faced several hardships. Experiencing nausea under the rough conditions he was unable to hold down his energy drinks. He also suffered multiple jellyfish stings. The endurance athlete strictly adhered to the rules of ocean swimming: no fins, no wetsuit, and no touching the boat.

Supported by Stormbird Media filmmaker Dean Allan Tolhurst, cameraman Robert Barkman, and seasoned boatmen from Kura Kura Resort, Monte demonstrated resolve throughout the arduous swim. "I'm OK," he replied every time the concerned crew, who also became sick due to the rolling waves, asked about his condition.

After 4 hours 4 minutes battling the elements the swimmer stepped onto the white sand beach of uninhabited Kumbang Island. Exhausted, but elated after his ordeal, he was cheered by his support crew.

When congratulated in a post-swim interview Monte responded, "Thank you very much. I'm tired, but I feel good…and happy. This swim, however, is for the people affected by the Yogya quake. Hundreds of thousands have lost nearly everything and now they must begin rebuilding their lives. This recovery will cost an estimated US$100 million. These wonderful people need help now." He closed with an appeal to " please give generously to the United Nations World Food Programme. You can make a difference at www.wfp.org."

Last month, also assisting the WFP Fight Hunger effort, Monte set a new single crossing world record while swimming a double crossing of the dangerous Bali Strait between Bali and Java.

Video footage of the Yogyakarta Relief Swim was sent to national and international TV networks as well as WFP headquarters in Rome for use as promotional material. Watch the video of Monte's recent Bali Strait Fight Hunger Swim in May!