Ned Denison of Ireland, shared his outlook on marathon swimming with his peers during the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame and the 2012 Global Open Water Swimming Conference.

His words range particularly loud during the Open Water Swimming Safety Panel where difficult topics were discussed and presented.

During Denison’s induction into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honour Administrator, Phil White of the Northeast Kingdom Open Water Swimming Association introduced him with the following words:

“It’s great to have friends and family around you to celebrate your achievements. But the best of friends are those who are there when you need them the most. Sometimes when you don’t even know you need them. Ned is such a friend.

In this room, we are all dreamers who have achieved at least some of our dreams. We have known the dream when it is first out there, flickering in the distance. We know the Demons of Doubt as they descend on us. ‘It can’t be done; especially by the likes of you. You are too old, too slow, or (if you are an event organizer) too befuddled. Folks will never come to your event. You are an idiot to even think of such a thing.’

When you raise your fist in the face of these ‘realities’ and say, ‘F’ You! I’m doin’ this son-of-a-gun.’ There is nobody, I mean nobody, better to have at your side than Ned Denison. I introduce to you a truly remarkable man, a wise and wily mentor to many, and someone I’m proud and deeply humbled to call my friend.”

Photo on right shows Denison with Channel Swimming Association president Michael Read MBE. Photo below shows Denison with Phil White.

Copyright © 2012 by Open Water Source