Interview With World Open Water Swim Association~ WOWSA
Why was WOWSA created?
WOWSA was established as a nonprofit this year with the goal of bringing the global open water swimming community closer together. We’re committed to providing swimmers, coaches, and event organizers with the tools and support they need to thrive. Although our mission remains the same, our nonprofit status allows us to focus on the sport's long-term growth, ensuring it prospers for future generations.
Covid saw most indoor swimming pools shut down and wild swimming surge. Have you seen this enthusiasm continue post-pandemic?
There’s no doubt that pool closures during the pandemic were a boon for our sport and encouraged countless swimmers to explore–maybe for the first time– oceans, rivers, lakes and ponds around the world. I believe that once you’ve experienced the rush and adventure of swimming in open bodies of water, going back to an exclusive pool routine can feel a little stale by comparison. So yes, I do believe the uptick in enthusiasm from the pandemic has largely continued.
Where do you see the most open water swimming around the world?
Open water swimming is a global phenomenon, with over 1 billion people living within ten kilometers of swimmable water. Some areas, however, have particularly vibrant communities. The UK is at the forefront of the wild swimming movement, while San Francisco's Aquatic Park, along with the historic Dolphin and South End Rowing Clubs, is another key hub. Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa also lead the way, thanks to the strong traditions of their surf lifesaving clubs. Perhaps most exciting is the emergence of communities, events, and marathon swimming associations across Eastern Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia.
What are some of your favorite outdoor swimming spots, meets or races?
I think we’re all partial to the local communities we’re a part of and the local waterways we call home. I’m no different. For me, there’s nothing better than swimming under the Golden Gate Bridge in the San Francisco Bay or in Lake Tahoe, for the annual Trans Tahoe Relay.
Weather is a factor for even indoor swimmers. How cold is too cold? And what do you recommend wild swimmers do when weather makes it difficult to train?
What the winter and ice swimming communities have taught us is that the human body is much more adaptable to the cold than previously thought. And I believe there is something empowering about identifying your own boundaries, then safely and gradually challenging them. BUT, it’s highly individualized and safety needs to be a top priority.
What are some of the ways WOWSA suggests to help motivate athletes to keep open water swimming?
The best motivation is people. Find a coach, a pod, a club or any group that you enjoy, and over time you will end up feeling accountable to showing up for those people.
What are the advantages open water has over training in the pool?
Open water is ever-changing, full of life, and no two days are the same. This constant variability fosters resilience, no matter if you're training for a pool competition, an open water race, a triathlon, or a marathon swim. As you embrace the unpredictable nature of open water, it becomes a part of you, something you begin to anticipate and thrive on.
What is your, ‘must have,’ piece of swim gear or equipment for outdoor Swimming?
I’m a minimalist when I swim generally, with a speedo, cap and goggles. But I do love my earplugs. When they go in, I can tune out the world on land and enjoy my aquatic moving meditation.
What advice would you give to someone getting started outdoor swimming?
Never swim alone! I say that as a safety precaution, but also because there’s an incredible and welcoming community out there in the open water for swimmers of all ability levels.
Read More About WOWSA at www.openwaterswimming.com
