Superheroes to Brave Atlantic Waves in Honour of Amy Gordon: Towan Beach Plunge Set for November 17th

In just one week, on Sunday, 17th November, Towan Beach in Newquay will host a vibrant tribute to Amy Gordon, an inspiring local woman who passed away in March after a determined fight against cancer. Hundreds of participants, dressed as superheroes, are expected to plunge into the Atlantic to celebrate her memory and raise funds for Cancer Research UK (CRUK).

Amy, a beloved figure in Newquay known for her passion for life and dedication to cancer awareness, created the “Superhero in the Cold” event with her close friend and sidekick, Andrea Flannigan. Together, they aimed to turn this event into a national movement, inviting all – whether or not they knew Amy – to join in honour of loved ones lost to cancer.

Creating a Legacy

Amy’s journey began on 4th February 2020 – fittingly, World Cancer Day – when she was diagnosed with grade 2 invasive ductal carcinoma, a common form of breast cancer. Determined to make the most of every day and to make a difference for future cancer patients, Amy took on the CRUK cold-water challenge in 2021, which required her to swim daily in November’s chilly waters. Andrea, an experienced cold-water swimmer, joined her for this daunting feat at Towan Beach, and together they completed the challenge with high spirits.

Following their success, Amy decided to launch their own version – “Superhero in the Cold” – to raise funds for cancer research. As Amy envisioned, the event would not only bring people together but also allow participants to feel the thrill and adrenaline of crashing through cold waves for a good cause. Amy wanted the event to grow on a national, or even global, scale as part of her legacy.

The Event Grows

The first “Superhero in the Cold” took place on 20th November 2022, when a gathering of participants – many donning superhero costumes – took to the Atlantic’s waves to the amusement of onlookers. In 2023, the event drew even more participants, as word of Amy’s inspiring mission spread.

Sadly, Amy lost her battle with cancer on 3rd March 2024. Yet her friend Andrea, determined to carry on Amy’s vision, invites the public to join her on 17th November 2024 at Towan Beach. Whether in superhero attire or as a spectator, participants will celebrate Amy’s humour, courage, and the strength of those affected by cancer.

How to Get Involved

The event begins at 10 a.m. on Towan Beach in Newquay (postcode TR7 1DU). Participants are encouraged to craft creative superhero costumes, rummaging through wardrobes to find something both warm and whimsical to honour their loved ones.

The suggested donation is £5, or whatever amount participants can give, which can be made via CRUK collecting buckets on the day or through Amy’s fundraising page.

To learn more about Amy’s story and her mission, please visit her Facebook page.