Ceinwen Roberts: Marathon Swimming, Community and a Life in the Ocean

In this episode of The Science & Art of Open Water Swimming, I sit down with Ceinwen Roberts; marathon swimmer, coach, event organiser and one of the most influential contributors to open-water swimming in Western Australia.

From her early days in the pool to becoming an Australian Hall of Fame marathon swimmer, Ceinwen reflects on a lifetime spent in and around the water. We explore her journey to 34 solo Rottnest Channel crossings, breaking the longstanding women's record, completing a Rottnest Triple Crossing, circumnavigating Rottnest Island, and setting a world record across the Bristol Channel.

But this conversation goes well beyond achievements. Ceinwen shares the lessons she's learned from decades of marathon swimming, the role the ocean has played throughout different stages of her life, and how some of her most meaningful experiences have come through helping others achieve goals they once thought were out of reach.

We also discuss the origins of Positive Swim Squad, the creation and growth of Port to Pub, the evolution of open-water swimming in WA, and her reflections on community, resilience, family, and what it means to spend a lifetime connected to the water.

Whether you're training for your first ocean swim, preparing for a channel crossing, or simply love stories from the open-water community, Ceinwen's warmth, humour and perspective make this a conversation not to be missed.

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This interview was recorded on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. I acknowledge the Noongar people as the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waters and pay my respects to Elders past and present.