British freediver attempts record-breaking dive in Egypt

Dolphin Girl, Sara Butler will become the first woman ever to freedive one of the world’s most awe-inspiring and challenging plunges – The Arch in Dahab, Egypt.

It is a huge archway, or tunnel, connecting the Blue Hole – a massive abyss – with the open ocean. To complete the dive Sara, 35, must first swim down 55 metres to the tunnel entrance.

After 10 metres the human body is no longer buoyant so she will use a “divebomb” technique to plummet further into the deep. She will then aim to take the shortest 35 metre route through the tunnel and then up to the surface threeand- a-half minutes later, swimming a total of 145m (475ft) – almost the height of Blackpool Tower.

“Imagine holding your breath for three-and-a-half minutes,” she said. “Now imagine doing it while physically working your body at its limits, at depth.

Remaining calm is the only thing that will ensure I survive.”

From the Sunday Mirror: Read more