Swimming Beyond the Physical

Mental Health in Open Water Swimming

At UltraSwim33.3, our mission is to be an event that anyone can participate in. We average at around 23 different nationalities per event, all from different swimming backgrounds and abilities.  The beautiful thing about UltraSwim33.3 is that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you are all undertaking the same epic test of endurance.

“I’ve worked in many sports over the years and without a doubt open water swimming is the most diverse in every sense of the word. Considering age, background, ability, weight, shape size, class - swimming truly is becoming a sport for everyone, and is the one sport we can also keep on doing pretty well until we die, and always in contact with nature! It’s what makes it so special and why it’s growing so fast.” - Mark Turner, Founder. 

For the majority of participants, UltraSwim33.3 is a truly life changing event. Not only are you proving to yourself that you are capable of incredible tests of endurance, you are also immersed in a huge sense of community. There is nothing like a four day ultra-marathon swim to bring people together! 

The finish #10Montenegro

 Swimming has huge benefits to mental heath, you learn to be comfortable in your own mind, alone, something a lot of people go through life without doing. Being in the sea has proven positive effects on our skin and immune system because of the minerals and anti-inflammatory effects of salt water.

When you swim, you are forced to control your breathing, like a form of meditation. So what do we offer? We hold swimmer talks each evening during the events, these range from inspiring swimmers talking about their experiences to talks about nutrition, strategy and mental preparation.

Recently, we have had Jay Prchal with us at our Montenegro swim events. He is an Australian holistic lifestyle coach (ex competitive pool swimmer) who specialises in emotional wellbeing and personal perspective. Some of you might know Andy Donaldson, Jay is Andy’s mentor and has supported him throughout his Ocean 7’s journey.

He has been an amazing advocate for mental health in swimming and at our events he talks freely and openly with our swimmers, helping them overcome the mental challenges of long-distance adventure swimming. He has time for everyone and no query or qualm is too much trouble. As well as team members like Jay, we have an amazing team of volunteers and staff who will support you every step of the way, even if you just need a warm hug at the finish line.  

Hugs from Lesley at the finish line #10Montenegro