What does it take to push past your limits and take on the world’s toughest open-water swims? In this episode of Swimming the Strait, I sit down with Caitlin O’Reilly, who—at the time of our conversation—was on her journey to completing the Ocean’s Seven, one of the most grueling endurance challenges in open-water swimming.

Since then, she has made history as the youngest person ever to complete it. We talk about the mental and physical battles, the resilience needed to keep going, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From brutal currents to freezing waters, Caitlin’s story is all about grit, determination, and the pursuit of something bigger than yourself.

Joining us is Rebecca Hollingsworth, an ultra marathon swimmer whose impressive resume includes some of the most challenging swims in the world.

Today, we'll dive deep into Rebecca's inspiring story, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and unwavering determination that drive her to push the limits of what's possible in the world of swimming. Get ready for an episode filled with motivation, incredible feats, and the relentless spirit of a true marathon swimmer.

Welcome to episode 7. Today’s guest studies the Ocean for a living, he has spent half of his life traveling the world to do so an, has dunked himself into almost frozen water in the coldest place on Earth. Join us on a conversation about all things oceanography and swimming in cold water.

Adriana shares with us why she started swimming. In this episode we talk about mental health, grief, community and training hard to achieve your swimming goals.

Casey Glover shares with us his love for the Ocean, how to train to cross the Cook Strait and life beyond swimming.

Gráinne Moss shares with us her learnings from swimming since the age of 5. We will chat about "having fun" in freezing water, resuming swimming after a few years gap, new challenges and a very interesting encounter in the Cook Strait.

Victoria Pinarello shares with us how to prepare for a 40.2 km swimming event; we discuss about mental strength, training, sleeping and very special high carb diet.

Philip Rush shares with us the knowledge acquired over many years of cold water, long distance swimming. From swimming over 6 hours in 6 degrees to guiding people across Cook Strait, New Zealand.

Feel inclined to cross Cook Strait? Find Phil here https://cookstraitswim.org.nz/