In the 1960s, it was Ted Erikson. In the 21st century, it is Rob Dumouchel and Xavier Desharnais carrying the mantel of bearded open water types.

But it seems beards are increasing seen on the open water swimming circuit with Aaron Peirsol and Samuel de Bona sporting some facial heard that does not create any beard-on-skin chafing. With their classic freestyle techniques, nothing much gets in the way of this pair.

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