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World Open Water Swimming Association

The World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) is dedicated to fostering a community of open-water swimmers, where individuals of all backgrounds and abilities can come together to learn, grow and achieve their goals. Through unwavering commitment to the pillars of community, integrity and education, they work to promote the highest standards of sportsmanship, fairness and transparency, while providing swimmers, coaches and organizers the resources they need to succeed. The water belongs to everyone. WOWSA keeps it open and honest – protecting fair standards, expanding safe access and sharing knowledge across the global community. 

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Ocean swimmer Andy Donaldson on Shakespeare Beach about to swim English Channel

Fastest time to swim the Oceans Seven (cumulative)

The fastest cumulative swim time to complete the Oceans Seven is 63 hours 2 minutes 9 seconds achieved by Andrew Donaldson (UK) between 7 August 2022 (English Channel) and 27 July 2023 (Tsugaru Strait).