Congratulations to Rob Lea on completing the Tsugaru Strait!

With the Tsugaru strait cross swim under his belt, he is now an OCEANS SEVEN ACHIEVER and the first person in history to complete the DOUBLE SEVEN!!!

Swim date: 30th June 2026

Age: 45

Nationality: USA

Country of Residence: USA

Swim Start Time: 4:10

Swim Finish Time: 15:53

Completion Time: 11 hours 43 minutes 35 seconds

Swim Distance: approximately 48.5km

Swimming Style: Free style

Water Temperature: 15.2℃ – 20.3℃ ※Water temperature measured at a depth of 1-meter

Air Temperature: 17.7℃ – 25.2℃

Relative Humidity: 51％ – 77％

Wave Height: 0.3m – 1.0m

Wind Speed: 0m – 6.8m

Stroke Rate Per 60 seconds: 58 – 67

Observer’s comment
From the preliminary meeting, I could sense a strong bond of trust among the entire team, and I was struck by the relaxed atmosphere. Seeing Him prepare nails adorned with the Japanese flag and swimsuits inspired by Japan, I could feel his dedication to this challenge and the special significance he placed on swimming in Japan. I also sensed the warm support for Rob from his wife and the film crew, which reinforced my impression that this is a truly wonderful team.

Although it was chilly in the morning when we set sail, Rob remained composed even after we arrived at the start point. The team, perhaps because of their trust in Rob, carried out his preparations calmly.

During the swim, sea conditions were calm at the start, but as time passed, the wind picked up and the waves grew stronger. Furthermore, as we headed north, the current got faster, making for an extremely challenging swim.

Even under these circumstances, Rob continued to swim calmly. However, as he progressed through the strait, the current got even faster, and there were moments when he clearly struggled. Toward the end, he even called out to the team, “Cheer me on from closer!” It was impressive to see him channeling the support of his teammates into strength right up until the very end. When the captain shouted, “This is where you’ve got to dig deep!” and Rob picked up his pace, I could sense his strong determination to achieve his goal.

After completing the swim, Rob was shivering due to the cold water, but once back on the boat, he was seen sharing his joy with his wife and the rest of the team. In that moment, I strongly felt the bond of the team that had overcome this long challenge together.

I was able to witness the historic moment of this world-first double conquest of the Seven Summits and the Oceans Seven, and as an observer, it was an incredible experience. Toward the end, I found myself getting so caught up in the Rob’s challenge that I couldn’t help but cheer him on. I am truly honored to have been present for this historic moment.

Rob, congratulations to complete the Tsugaru Strait Cross Swim and achieving the world’s first double conquest of the Seven Summits and the Oceans Seven!!!

Observer: Kenta Tonosaki