Fiona Goh became the youngest female to compete a marathon swim off of any of the California Channel islands. The Californian competed the 12.4-mile swim from Anacapa Island to Silver Stand Beach in Oxnard, California in 10 hours 10 minutes.

Since 1927, there have been approximately 350 solo marathon swims off of the 8 channel islands. Goh is 13 years and 300 days not only became the youngest, but also the 34th person and 10th female to complete a swim off of Anacapa Island despite a constant battle against an oncoming current.

The marine life was very active during her endeavor as she encountered rays, jellyfish, a pod of dolphins, 6 seals and 2 blue whales which breached the surface only a few hundred yards from her.

According to Scott Zornig, President of the Santa Barbara Channel Swim association, “We thought Fiona would complete the swim in 7 hours based on her speed, but the currents did not cooperate which resulted in an additional 3 hours in the water. There are few adults who possess the athleticism and intestinal fortitude to complete such an amazing endeavor…and only one 13 year old female for the time being.”

Copyright © 2012 by Open Water Source