The 7 Hours of Swimming

DEDICATED TO:

MARIA DEL MILAGRO PARIS CROWNED

Margarita Chacon Castro

The recent 7 Hours of Swimming charity event was a resounding success, both in terms of participation and social impact. With a maximum capacity of 16 teams, the event brought together swimmers from diverse backgrounds, clubs, and communities, all united by a common cause: to provide financial support for a year to Professor Fernando Díaz, recognized and beloved for his work in the sports world.

The competition ran from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., uninterrupted and continuous. Each team freely managed the relays, with the only condition that each swimmer swam for a minimum of 10 minutes. The final 15 minutes were reserved for a speed phase, where each team designated four swimmers to close out the event with a final effort filled with excitement and strategy.

The format allowed for participation from large teams of up to 10 swimmers to individual teams. Equality was promoted in team composition, with at least one or two women included, depending on the number of members. This rule did not apply to all-female teams or to those with swimmers with special needs.

In addition, the competition was rigorously organized. Each lane accommodated two teams, and official counters were in charge of keeping track of the number of laps covered. The official count began at 9:00 a.m., with hourly updates. The organization was precise and transparent, allowing the final results to be released just fifteen minutes after the event concluded.

In addition to the athleticism, the atmosphere was one of total camaraderie. Each participant's commitment, not only to their team but also to the cause that gave meaning to each stroke, was evident. Solidarity was the true driving force behind this aquatic event.

The awards ceremony took place at 3:30 p.m., recognizing not only the winning team by distance swum, but also the sportsmanship that marked the entire day.

The event made it clear that when sport and solidarity combine, the result is a stronger, more empathetic, and more active community. The 7 Hour Swim not only demonstrated the power of physical endurance, but also the value of swimming for something greater: the well-being of those who have given so much to others.