Four Channel swimmers in sea; Slater, Huffaker, Neukirschen & Malek

Suited Man with glasses is Channel Swimming Association Secretary John Unicombe-Woods. Nearest to the water. Behind Unicombe-Woods, is Moseen, Abdul Malek’s Manager.

From the left, Dr. Wilfred Slater, U.S.A. No attempt due to weather.

The second person is Harry Huffaker, U.S.A. Two unsuccessful attempts, 1963 & 1964. After arriving in Hawaii fresh out of Dental School in Michigan,1965, Harry swam: Kaiwi Channel Moloka’i to O’aho 26mile 1970. 1st. Crossing of Alenuihaha Channel (Hawaii to Maui) 30 miles.     1st Crossing (in reverse direction) of Kaiwi Channel (Oahu to Molokai) 1972. Auau Channel 1987 (8.8 miles). Paillolo Channel 1989 (Maui to Molokai) 8.5 miles. 1st Crossing (reverse) of Kalohi (Molokai to Lanai) 1989. Auau Channel twice in 1989 8.8 miles.

Hans Neukirschen Germany; no attempt made due to shoulder injury. He made three unsuccessful attempts; The first was from France to England, in 1960 14hrs 12mins. In 1961 he attempted a England to France and swam for 17hrs & 42mins. In 1962 he again attempted England to France and swam for 3 hrs 41 mins.

Abdul Malek – unsuccessful, had hypothermia. He stayed in England and swam the Channel  Sept 11th 1966, from France to England time 13hrs 42mins. He succumbed to a heart attack not long after.