A weekend of open water celebrations on Jersey

Last month the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame held its annual induction on Jersey – one of the world’s great channel crossing hubs

Last month Jersey hosted the International Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF), inviting nearly 100 of the world’s most accomplished swimmers, coaches, pilots, and organisers for a celebration of open water swimming.

The awards ceremony takes place in a different location each year when athletes gather to receive their honours, attend a conference and take part in a swimming race.

Swim coach Sally Minty-Gravett MBE hosted the event. A Jersey resident, Sally herself was inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2006, in a ceremony in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“This was the biggest thing for long-distance swimming in Jersey we have ever organised,” said Sally. “It was huge – and I am so very proud to have been able to showcase our beautiful island at its very best.”

Always time for a race

Fifty swimmers attended the event and 36 of them took part in a swimming race from Green Island to Harve des Pas on the Saturday morning. American open water swimmer Grace van der Byl won the race and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame at the awards evening.

Among others inducted to the Hall of Fame this year were long-distance swimmers Simone Ercoli, Dina Levačić and Nora Toledano Cadena. Pilot Eddie Spelling and coach Jorge “Coco” Villegas Pérez were also recognized.

Executive Committee member Ned Denison reminded the open water community that IMSHOF nominations are open year-round. “Anyone can nominate swimmer – coach, pilot, organizer,” he said. “Don’t worry if it’s only half-finished. We’ll help. Final decisions are made by a diverse voting panel of 70 selectors across 28 countries.”

Reflecting on the event, Sally said, ““I’ve witnessed so many changes in long-distance swimming. But the passion, the connection, the commitment — it’s all still here. That’s what this weekend proved.”