Sam Farrow, a British endurance swimmer, is said to have broken the world record for the fastest female to swim across Lake Geneva, leaving her “in complete shock.” Farrow swam continuously for over 22 hours, covering a distance of 72.8 km (45.2 miles) on the lake, which is located on the north side of the Alps between France and Switzerland. Although her record is yet to be ratified, the Lake Geneva Swimming Association is expected to recognize her achievement shortly.
Farrow, from Wigan in Greater Manchester, had to endure backaches, cramps, and fatigue throughout her swim. However, the beautiful scenery surrounding the lake kept her going, and she also relied on positive mental attitude to make it through. She said the last 15 km was particularly grueling, with the big muscles in her back cramping. She had to stop swimming and curl up into a ball to relieve her spinal pain. Farrow emphasised the importance of a positive mindset in any endurance sport.
Farrow’s record is also known as The Signature and has been set by the Lake Geneva Swimming Association, an organisation recognised globally by endurance swimmers to adjudicate the swim from Chateau de Chillon to the Bains des Paquis. Prior to swimming across Lake Geneva, Farrow performed her longest swim in Scotland, across Loch Ore, Loch Lomond, and Loch Ness, each measuring 22 miles (36 km). Farrow started training for the Lake Geneva challenge in December, stating that it had been “a juggling act” due to her two jobs and two children.
Farrow will know at the end of September whether she has officially set the world record. According to Farrow, although training is an essential component of endurance swimming, mental fortitude is equally critical. She notes that negative thoughts can sway a swimmer’s progress, and one must try to remain optimistic at all times
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