At the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame induction ceremony that culminates the 2012 Global Open Water Swimming Conference, a renowned member of the open water swimming community will give the Channel Blessing:

May your limbs be strong

and your breath be even.

May the rhythm of you stroke be smooth

And your Spirit high.

May the sea lay calm before you
and the wind and tide be at your back
and the Lord hold you safely
in the hallow of his hand.

And above all remember
“Nothing great is easy”

This blessing was originally given to the Des Renford Channel Relay team on Sydney Harbour, Australia on May 11th, 1993 by Tony Doherty. Renford, who went 19-for-19 on English Channel attempts, will be honored at the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame ceremonies.

The quote is found on page 143 of the 2009 revision of the Channel Swimming Association handbook.

Copyright © 2012 by Open Water Source