Pioneering open water swimmer Lewis Pugh of Great Britain has been honored as one of the Young Global Leaders of 2010.

Among the honorees, Pugh was also joined by another Australian Olympic swimming hero, Ian Thorpe.

This honor is annually bestowed by the World Economic Forum to recognize the most distinguished young leaders below the age of 40 from around the world. The Selection Committee, composed of the world’s top media leaders and chaired by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

The Young Global Leaders come from every walk of life and every corner of the Earth and is a prestigious recognition of their record of professional accomplishments, selfless commitment to society and their powerful potential to contribute to shaping the future of the world through inspirational leadership.

World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders form of a unique global network of peers from diverse backgrounds and fields, with a highly visible opportunity to significantly impact world affairs and shape the global agenda.

Certainly, Pugh’s dramatic swims from the North to South Poles and his passionate calls for action in the realm of climate change and Thorpe’s Fountain for Youth’s literacy programs are shining examples of this leadership and inspiration.

Wet or dry, Lewis and Ian are selfless ambassadors who utilize their talents for the benefit of others.

An example of one of Lewis’ talks can be seen here.

Copyright © 2010 by World Open Water Swimming Association