Costa Rica News – Swimming 21 km in the open see sounds like an impossible task to most. Even to those who train for these activities it is a physical and mental challenge. 21 swimmers completed the longest swim in Costa Rica this Saturday in the Golfo Dulce Crossing in Golfito.
They were in the open sea for over five hours. They were each accompanied by a kayaker to lead them in the right direction and give them food and water. The elite are not allowed to touch the kayak while they eat.
Those swimming the 14 km race also have kayakers. Shorter races include the 5 km and 1.5 km ones. All the athletes spent time training in the pool and sea to prepare for this day.
The kayakers have it tough too. 21 km is a long way. One of them fell ill and while the swimmer could have waited for another one to come, she decided to go on alone.
The swimmers and kayakers can not control how choppy the sea is or how hot the sun gets. Swimmers are exposed to other dangers as well such as marine animals that sting.
