Open Water Swimming Women

Anne Marie Ward pic Sports News Ireland

Irish woman Anne Marie Ward was named as the World Open Water Swimmer of the Year. 

Ward swam for 18 hours and 59 minutes to cross the Northern Channel between Ireland and Scotland in her second attempt at the crossing.  As someone who never even goes for a quick dip in Ireland without freezing, can we just say impressive. More details here on Sports News Ireland.

The awards are to "honor the woman who (1) best embodies the spirit of open water swimming, (2) possesses the sense of adventure, tenacity and perseverance that open water swimmers are known for, and (3) has most positively influenced the world of open water swimming in 2010."

I've posted about another nominee American swimmer Diana Nyad before here and here. You can read about the other ten nominees here on Open Water Source - maybe you'll find some inspiration to get in the water ...or not, so cold!

What's your long distance swimming record? Or shortest!