Andy Donaldson: Swimming for Something Bigger

What happens when swimming becomes about more than performance?

In this episode of The Science & Art of Open Water Swimming, I sit down with marathon swimmer Andy Donaldson to explore the experiences, lessons and values that have shaped one of the most accomplished open-water swimmers in the world.

Originally from Scotland and now based in Perth, Andy became the first person to complete the Oceans Seven challenge within a single calendar year and has set multiple world and channel records along the way. But beyond the achievements, this conversation explores the person behind the swims.

We discuss Andy's journey from pool swimming to marathon swimming, the influence of moving to Western Australia, what local swimmers often take for granted, and the role that science, preparation and decision-making play in successful open-water performance.

We also explore Andy's recent Ord River swim, his commitment to mental health advocacy, and why he believes sport should enrich your life rather than take it over.

In this episode we discuss:

• Growing up in Scotland and finding a path in open-water swimming
• The transition from pool swimming to marathon swimming
• The influence of Perth and Western Australia's swimming culture
• Performance, preparation and learning from science
• Lessons from the Ord River Dam-to-Dam swim
• Mental health, resilience and purpose
• Building community and creating positive impact through sport

Whether you're new to open-water swimming or preparing for your next marathon swim, Andy offers thoughtful insights into what it means to use swimming as a vehicle for challenge, connection and positive change.

If you would like to connect with Andy:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewdonaldson1/
• Facbeook – https://www.facebook.com/andy.swimming
• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/andy.swimming/
• Website – www.andyswimming.com

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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.