Congratulations to Mr. Robert Woodhouse (Known as Rob Woodhouse) on completing the Tsugaru Strait!

With the Tsugaru strait cross swim under his belt, he is now an OCEANS SEVEN SWIMMER!!!

Swim date: 7th July 2025

Age: 59

Nationality: Australia

Country of Residence: Australia

Swim Duration: 11hous 50minutes

Swim Start Time: 4:54

Swim Finish Time: 16:44

Swim Distance: approximately 57km

Swimming Style: Free style

Water Temperature: 15.5℃ – 22.2℃

Air Temperature: 20.6℃ – 29.8℃

Relative Humidity: 56％ – 92％

Wave Height: 0.5m – 1.1m

Wind Speed: 0.7m – 4.6m

Stroke Rate Per 60 seconds: 58 – 64

Visibility: 2.7nm – 5.4nm

Swimmer’s comment:

I really enjoyed my time in Nakadomari.  The local people were very friendly and supportive.  I really appreciated the warm welcome I received when we arrived back to the harbour after the swim.

Observer’s comment:

From the initial briefing right up to departure, Rob appeared completely relaxed. Even when we informed him that the departure would be delayed by an hour due to sea conditions, he remained unfazed, calmly eating a banana and simply replying, “No problem.” That composed attitude left a strong impression, carrying the unmistakable poise and presence of an Olympic medallist.

The sea conditions during the swim were far from ideal — the waves were high, and the current was extremely strong. Although we needed to head north, the current that was flowing from west to east was exceptionally strong, at times exceeding six knots. Yet, Rob showed no sign of panic or frustration. He continued to swim steadily and powerfully, maintaining remarkable composure throughout.

Even after completing the crossing, even after he complete the crossing Rob kept swimming strongly from the finish point until returning the escort boat. However, when he struggled to climb the ladder onto the deck, it became clear that he had given absolutely everything, using every last ounce of strength to finish the swim.

Our captain later said, “It was miraculous what he achieved considering the sea conditions. No one else would have been able to make it happen. No one else would have been able to swim as powerfully as he did today”.

As an observer, I am beyond grateful to have witnessed such an absolute miracle.

Once again, congratulations on your incredible achievement and on completing the Oceans Seven, Rob!

Observer: Yuka Itō