Andy Donaldson Sets Record in 55km Crocodile-Filled Ultramarathon Swim
Andy Donaldson, a British-Australian ultramarathon swimmer, successfully completed the 55km Dam to Dam Challenge on October 3, 2023, from Lake Argyle to Kununurra, setting a record time of 11 hours and 51 minutes. This remarkable feat made him the first man to finish this grueling endurance swim, surpassing Simone Blaser's previous record of 16 hours and 13 minutes set in 2024. Prior to his swim, Donaldson faced a stark reminder of the challenges ahead with a 2.5-metre freshwater crocodile spotted at the start ramp. The Ord River, known for its population of 5,500 freshwater crocodiles, posed a unique threat, although Donaldson felt secure due to the relatively timid nature of these reptiles. Reflecting on his experience, Donaldson remarked: "It was a bit nerve-racking doing a swim in the open water... There’s always a risk of wildlife." Despite the adrenaline rush, he described the swim as largely uneventful, emphasizing safety and teamwork throughout the challenge. He started his journey at 5:38 AM, navigating through ancient gorges and stunning landscapes, even as temperatures soared to 34°C. Key challenges included: Lack of salt affecting buoyancy An unexpected headwind Areas of "dead water" with no current As he approached the finish line, local swimmers joined him for the final stretch, highlighting the community spirit surrounding this event. Donaldson concluded: "These challenges, they’re never achieved alone... you can go a lot further when you have great people around you." Overall, Donaldson described this swim as the most beautiful experience of his life, surpassing his previous adventures in places like Hawaii, Greece, and Croatia.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-04-29