Grandmother Becomes First Person to Swim Goldengate Bridge to Farallon Islands

Amy Appelhans Gubser, a 55-year-old nurse and seasoned open-water swimmer, achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first person to swim the challenging 29.7-mile route from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Farallon Islands. This incredible journey took 17 hours, during which Gubser braved frigid waters, swirling currents, and the notorious shark-infested area known as the “Red Triangle.”

Despite these formidable challenges, the swim was completed without a sighting of sharks, thanks to the vigilant support of her experienced crew aboard the fishing boat Pacific Rival. The crew, well-trained in ocean rescue and monitoring marine conditions, ensured her safety throughout the swim. The U.S. Coast Guard was also on alert, prepared for any emergency with detailed plans based on the color of her swimsuit.

Gubser’s swim was not just a test of physical endurance but also a profound experience that connected her with the elements in a way that pool swimming never could. She described open-water swimming as a journey where time ceases to matter, and the focus shifts to perseverance and the sheer magnitude of the natural world. Amid the peaceful solitude of the ocean, Gubser found moments of introspection and tranquility, using the rhythmic strokes to meditate and even compose poems.

The successful completion of this swim adds to Gubser’s impressive portfolio of marathon swims, including crossings of Lake Tahoe, Monterey Bay, the Catalina Channel, and the notoriously difficult channels between Ireland and Scotland. Her achievement has drawn accolades from the global open-water swimming community, celebrating her as a beacon of inspiration for her indomitable spirit and dedication to conquering some of the world’s toughest waters.