Walking on Water: Measuring An 82-Year-Old’s Inspiring World Record Attempt
Published on by Toni Abrahams
We are working in partnership with Korec to measure an extraordinary world record attempt by 82-year-old retired businessman Tony Fahey from Manchester. On 12th–13th May 2026, Tony and a team of four will take on a 24-hour “walk on water” endurance challenge at Sale Water Park, Greater Manchester, raising vital funds for Make-A-Wish® UK.
We have partnered with Korec to measure 82-year-old retired businessman from Manchester, Tony Fahey’s world record attempt for walking on water for 24 hours to raise funds for Make-A-Wish® UK.
A Challenge with Heart
In a remarkable display of courage, endurance and heart, Tony Fahey is preparing for an extraordinary challenge in support of Make-A-Wish® UK. The water challenge will take place on the 12th and 13th May 2026, where Tony will lead a team of four to attempt a world record 24-hour “walk on water” endurance challenge at Sale Water Park in Greater Manchester, to raise vital funds for children living with critical illness.
From Near-Death to New Ambitions
Tony’s incredible journey to this challenge didn’t start in a gym or a race. It began with a near-fatal accident in February 2021, when he was struck by a car traveling at 50 mph during a walk. He underwent emergency surgery and suffered from severe injuries resulting in 18 months of rehabilitation. This unfortunate experience reignited his passion for ambitious feats. Now training five days a week, Tony is more focused than ever on pushing boundaries for a cause close to his heart.
A Legacy of Records
Record-breaking pursuits aren’t new for Tony. Back in 1977, under the mentorship of legendary racing mechanic Leo Villa OBE, Tony competed in Formula One powerboat racing. Within a year, he set two world records and one British national record.
Tony’s achievements include:
- R6-category speed World Record holder (still unbroken)
- World production-engine powerboat record
- British national water speed record
- A peak speed of 158 mph.
Innovation Meets Endurance
To make the “walk on water” possible, Tony worked with a design engineer to build the “aqua elliptica”, a human-powered watercraft that uses a forward walking-style motion to glide across the water’s surface.
How You Can Support
We look forward to supporting Tony and his team and measuring their attempt. To support his journey and help Make-A-Wish UK continue granting extraordinary wishes, donations can be made via his JustGiving page.
