Eighty-year-old swimmer and triathlete Txaro Tomasena from Elgeta, Guipúzcoa, successfully swam the ten-kilometre stretch between Lobos Island and Lanzarote on Monday, October 5, completing the crossing in six hours. This remarkable achievement reflects years of rigorous training and a focus on nutrition.
Tomasena took up swimming seriously at the age of 65 after a troubling experience at sea during a trip to San Sebastián. She recalled worrying her husband with her delayed return and realised she needed proper swimming instruction. Determined to improve her technique, she sought coaching and transitioned to triathlons, finding great enjoyment in the sport.
Last year, Tomasena represented Spain at the Masters Olympic Games in Taiwan, winning her first Olympic gold in a sprint triathlon, along with another gold medal in open water swimming.
To prepare for her latest challenge, Tomasena engaged in various demanding competitions, noting the significant differences between pool training and open water. After successfully crossing the Gibraltar Strait, she turned her focus to La Bocaina, intensifying her training for this new goal.
Environmental challenges, including currents, tides, and winds, played a crucial role in her training. Initially set for October 3, the swim was postponed to October 5 due to adverse wind conditions. During her crossing, Tomasena faced strong currents pushing her off course, particularly near the ferry lanes, prompting her team to redirect her towards Lobos.
Assisted by a support boat, she received food and energy drinks as she swam. After six hours in the water, she reached Lobos but was knocked against the rocks by waves upon arrival. A judge from the Spanish Swimming Federation was present to certify her feat, which could enter the Guinness World Records as no one aged 80 has previously achieved such a crossing.
Reflecting on her successful completion of the swim, Tomasena expressed that while she was not surprised, it was still a significant accomplishment stemming from her rigorous training. She prefers swimming alone to maintain a personal connection with the sea, focusing entirely on her performance.
Looking after her health is a priority for Tomasena, who likens it to maintaining a car with proper care. She is meticulous about her diet, emphasising the impact food has on her well-being. Although she shares responsibilities as a caregiver for her partner despite the challenges, she asserts that rest is vital for effective training.
Tomasena attributes part of her vitality to genetics, citing her remarkable maternal lineage. As she sets her sights on future challenges, she anticipates two more years of preparation but remains tight-lipped about her next ventures.
