Former Rugby Star's Wife Vanishes During Wild Swim in Edinburgh

On September 3, 2024, Jenny Hastings, the 60-year-old spouse of former Scotland and British and Irish Lions rugby player Scott Hastings, disappeared while engaging in wild swimming off Wardie Bay in Edinburgh. The family has reported her missing, and authorities are treating the case as a high-risk missing persons situation.

Wild swimming, the practice of swimming in natural bodies of water, has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential physical and mental health benefits. However, this incident highlights the potential risks associated with the activity.

The Hastings family released a statement acknowledging Jenny's long-standing struggle with depression, a common mental disorder affecting over 264 million people worldwide. They expressed their heartbreak and hope for her safe return, emphasizing the significant impact she has had on their lives.

This is not the first time Jenny Hastings has gone missing. Approximately seven years ago, in 2017, she disappeared for 36 hours before being found 10 miles from her home in Warriston, Edinburgh. In 2014, she attempted to take her own life, later explaining that she "just wanted to get away" and felt disconnected from others.

Following the report of her disappearance, emergency services initiated a search operation involving lifeboats and helicopters. The coastguard, responsible for safety in coastal waters, later stood down their search while Police Scotland continued their efforts.

Both Jenny and Scott Hastings serve as ambassadors for Change Mental Health, formerly known as Support in Mind Scotland. This involvement underscores the increasing awareness of mental health issues in sports and society at large.

Scott Hastings, one of Scotland's most-capped rugby players, made 65 appearances for the national team during his career. He also represented the British and Irish Lions twice, a prestigious selection of players from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland that tours every four years.

As the search for Jenny Hastings continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues and the importance of support systems and awareness in addressing these challenges.

"I didn't want to be with anyone. At that point I really felt that I was not part of anyone's life – I didn't believe anyone wanted me around."