The Tribune

ABACO mechanical engineer and diver Mark Sweeting risked his life to save a distressed tourist who fell into the harbour off Prince George Wharf. Mr Sweeting, 49, was on his way to visit friends, and parked his boat just minutes before the incident happen. The male tourist was not conscious during the rescue, and witnesses did not have a rope or floating device, so they formed a human chain to get both men out of the water. The Ministry of Tourism rewarded the Abaconian with a certificate of appreciation for his bravery. Minister of Tourism, Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, presented Mr Sweeting with the certificate and a new phone - as Sweeting's was lost as a result of his quick response to the drowning visitor. This is not the first time Sweeting has saved someone from drowning. And his good nature went beyond the actual rescue - he also visited the young man in the hospital. The hero has had lots of practice in the water, as he swims the marathon from Prince George Wharf to Montagu Beach every year. Mr Sweeting is the proud son of former Bahamasair pilot, Captain Kenneth Sweeting, and former United Shipping employee, Barbara Sweeting.