Congratulations to Mrs. Joanne Norman!

Swim date: 19th July 2025

Age: 54

Nationality: Australia

Country of Residence: United Arab Emirates

Swim Duration: 13hous 17minutes

Swim Start Time: 4:06

Swim Finish Time: 17:23

Swim Distance: approximately 49km

Swimming Style: Free style

Water Temperature: 18.0℃ – 25.0℃

Air Temperature: 21.4℃ – 27.0℃

Relative Humidity: 51％ – 85％

Wave Height: 0.5m – 1.0m

Wind Speed: 0m – 1.4m – 4.8m

Stroke Rate Per 60 seconds: 60 – 70

Visibility: 10nm

Observer’s comment

During the preliminary meeting, it was clear that the three-member team had a strong sense of trust and confidence in one another. The interpreter also had experience supporting Tsugaru Strait crossings as an interpreter, which made the meeting run very smoothly.

At the time of departure, both Mrs. Norman and the crew appeared relaxed, showing no signs of nervousness.

Throughout the swim, the sea remained calm with waves under one metre. Mrs. Norman maintained a steady pace, although there were times when it seemed she was affected by the current. At certain points, the water temperature suddenly dropped, which may have contributed to physical fatigue. Nevertheless, Mrs. Norman remained composed, keeping a consistent rhythm and taking nutrition breaks punctually.

At the finish, she completed the crossing strongly and with great composure. After returning to the escort boat, she appeared exhausted and immediately laid down to recover from her amazing accomplishment. However, despite all this when we arrived back to Kodomari she was sitting up and ready to disembark.

It was a great pleasure to be on board as an observer for Mrs. Norman’s swim and to be part of her successful challenge.

Observer: Masashi Kimura