Diana Nyad becomes the first person to swimfrom Cuba to the US without a shark cage at the grand age of 64 and at the fifth time of asking.
The endurance swimmer from America completed the staggering feat in 53-hours without stopping, accompanied by a team of 35 people who followed her by boat, day and night.
After having attempted to swim the 110-mile crossing from Cuba to Florida a previous four times over the past 35 years, Ms Nyad had sworn this would be her fifth and final attempt.
This had been a “lifelong dream” of Diana Nyad, and as she arrived on the beach at Key West, Florida, visibly dazed and understandably struggling for breath, she spoke to 200 well-wishers and media who had gathered, telling them: “Never give up. You’re never too old to chase your dreams!”
Her previous attempts had been hampered by asthma, storms and jelly fish stings, but this time the weather was much fairer and the treacherous creatures that dwell in the Florida straits stayed away.
Ms Nyad hopes to inspire others with her incredible display of human spirit and determination – we think she’s achieved that goal too. Diana Nyad – we salute you!!! You Bluddy Legend!!!!
