Beach at China, 2025
In the heart of August, under the iconic Golden Gate, the second annual China Beach swim took place. This event, though not officially recognised in the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, was a 5-mile open water swim that brought together a dedicated community of athletes and volunteers.
The success of the swim can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of many individuals. Nathaniel Berger, the lead pilot, and Ben Chun, the lead swim commissioner, played pivotal roles in ensuring the event ran smoothly. A team of volunteers, including Derrick Rebello, Ken Miller, Mara Iaconi, Emily Ozer, Aude Bouagnon, Emily Nogue, Tamar Besson, Tovia Sobel, Chloe Noonan, Beth Sharpe, Logan Craig, Tom Reynolds, Michael Halby, Henry Rogers, Janine Cororan, Aniko Kurczinak, and a host of pilots such as Dominic Lusinchi, Lilian Tsai, Terry Horn, Margaret Keenan, Lisa Weaver, and many others, were instrumental in making the swim a reality.
A total of 15 swimmers and pilots participated in the event. The swim course, while challenging, was navigated with determination and resilience. The swimmers faced shifting currents and boat traffic, with one unnamed participant even missing the opening but completing the swim under his own power.
In a remarkable display of perseverance, all 15 swimmers who started the swim earned their finishes. This year's China Beach swim served as a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and the indomitable will of its participants.
As the world focused on the World Aquatics Championships held in Singapore, the China Beach swim remained a beacon of local aquatic achievement. While the traditional "China Beach swim" may not be a part of the official championships, it continues to thrive as a unique and challenging event in the open water swimming community.
The China Beach swim, regardless of its absence in the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, showcased a vibrant sports event that drew a passionate group of athletes and volunteers. This 5-mile open water swim, with its demanding course, tested the determination and resilience of all participants.
