In a historic display of endurance and unwavering determination, Shannon Keegan, a renowned marathon swimmer, has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing a groundbreaking 66km swim along Dominica’s Waitukubuli Sea Trail, spanning from Scotts Head to Capuchin. This daring feat unfolded as Keegan dove into the challenge at 12:52 am on Sunday, November 26, 2023, and emerged victorious at 2:40 am on Monday, November 27, after an incredible 25 hours and 40 minutes in the water.
Keegan’s accomplishment marks her as the sole individual worldwide to conquer the entire Waitukubuli Sea Trail, elevating her status as a trailblazer in the realm of open-water swimming. Undertaking this arduous journey, the US national not only aimed to push her personal limits but also sought to thrust Dominica into the global spotlight as a premier destination for open-water and marathon swim endeavors. Supported by a dedicated team, including two kayakers, a boat captain, two observers, and a team coordinator, Keegan’s swim was a meticulously planned and flawlessly executed endeavor.
Beyond her identity as a seasoned athlete, Keegan wears multiple hats—she is a devoted mother, wife, swim efficiency coach, and podcast host based in the United States. Her passion for open water swimming ignited with her inaugural 10km swim at Bermuda Round the Sound in 2010, propelling her to consistently challenge herself with increasingly longer distances. Noteworthy achievements include a 59km swim in Lake George in 2022 and setting a record earlier this year for the fastest crossing of Loch Ness in Scotland, covering an impressive 36km in just 10 hours and 28 minutes. Keegan’s journey serves as an ongoing source of inspiration, continually pushing the boundaries of open-water swimming.
As a valued member of SwimMastery’s global network of coaches, Keegan channels her passion into sharing knowledge and experiences with individuals of all ages, actively promoting the significance of access to swimmable water. Her commitment aligns seamlessly with SwimMastery’s broader mission of making swimming accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
This ambitious swim wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Weston Moses and his team from the Soufriere Outdoor Center (SOC). The SOC, credited with founding the Waitukubuli Sea Trail—the Caribbean’s inaugural marine trail—has garnered international acclaim, being featured in prestigious publications such as TIMES Magazine, Conde Nast, and Paddle TV. Additionally, the trail secured a coveted spot in National Geographic’s “The Cool List 2024,” underscoring Dominica as a distinctive and captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
Waw! What a feat! What a woman! Congratulations Keegan! You inspire me to up my game.