I had the great pleasure to discuss and explain the history and individual crossings of the Tsugaru Strait in a recent Ultraswimming Podcast with Jessica Kieras and Evan Morrison.

Listen here to Episode 10.

Morrison sums up the podcast, “In 1990, Steven Munatones (64, USA, MSF bio here, @steven.munatones) became the second person to cross the strait and the first to cross in both directions. Thirty-six years later, he still holds both speed records and has helped countless other swimmers across.

In this interview, we learn what to consider if you’re thinking of attempting this challenge, how Steven planned his crossings, the support he volunteers for contemporary swimmers, and how you can contribute positively to the connections being rebuilt with local support organizations and pilots. Steven also tells us about his recent adventure circumnavigating Shodoshima Island in a series of six consecutive stage swims.“

I learned about the new Ultraswimming podcast as I was confirming the successful crossing of the strait in northern Japan by Mexican Triple Crowner Diego Aragón (38, Mexico, MSF bio here, @diegonadando_) and the upcoming attempt by Sarah Poplar (50, Great Britain, MSF bio here, @sarahpoplar_endurance.athlete). Aragón crossed Tsugaru in 10 hours 19 minutes in the 24.5°C water under the escort of Captain Hashimoto. To learn about Aragón’s career in Spanish and his dreams about achieving the Oceans Seven, listen to his podcast here (“Diego Aragón: de la Triple Corona al reto de los siete mares“).

Click here for additional Ultraswimming podcasts by Kieras and Morrison with different individuals from the global marathon swimming community.

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