Tanya Livingston triumphs in Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim Race

GEORGE NEWS - Tanya Livingston, a revered local masters swimmer, has once again showcased her remarkable prowess in the water.

She achieved a stunning victory in the Women's 50 to 54 age category at the prestigious Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race held in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey.

Amidst a gathering of more than 2,600 athletes representing over 70 nations, Tanya's triumph shone bright.

The race entailed conquering a grueling 6.5 km course, a test of endurance that demanded unwavering determination from every participant.

Reflecting on her achievement, Tanya humbly shared, "In the men's race, I would have secured the 16th position overall, with 15 male swimmers surpassing my time. However, I proudly clinched the 10th spot among all female participants. This placed me as the 25th fastest out of the 2,800 swimmers who embarked on this challenging journey. It appears that approximately 2,400 individuals successfully completed the race."

Tanya continued to elucidate the extraordinary nature of the race, noting,

"The tide played a pivotal role in propelling us forward. We surged from the Asian side of the illustrious Bosporus strait to the European side, achieving an astonishing speed that allowed us to cover the extensive 6.5 km course in a time comparable to a 3.5 km swim. For two hours, maritime traffic came to a halt, affording us swimmers the liberty to traverse the strait unimpeded."

The Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race stands as an eagerly anticipated annual spectacle, set against the backdrop of Istanbul's grandeur. As participants from all corners of the globe plunge into the cerulean waters, the world's narrowest strait is temporarily closed to commercial shipping.

This dynamic closure yields an unparalleled and exhilarating experience, uniting the swimmers and their surroundings in a symphony of adrenaline and beauty.

Endorsed by the National Olympic Committee of Turkey, the Bosphorus Cross Continental Swimming Race presents a rare opportunity for athletes to traverse from Asia to Europe by swimming or rowing, all while being enveloped by the breathtaking allure of the Bosphorus – a testament to the harmonious fusion of human achievement and natural splendor.

Tanya Livingston