Andrew Page: Good Habits, Great Friends and 51 Rottnest Crossings

Most swimmers dream of crossing to Rottnest once. Andrew Page has done it 51 times.

In this episode, Andrew shares the story of a swimming journey that began long before his first Rottnest crossing and evolved into a lifetime of challenge, curiosity and connection. From growing up in Queensland and Victoria, to moving to Perth and saying yes to a spontaneous invitation to swim to Rottnest, Andrew reflects on the experiences, people and habits that have shaped his remarkable time in the water.

We discuss the friendships that underpin marathon swimming, including the long-standing relationship with his skipper that has supported dozens of crossings, the role of coaches and training squads, and the importance of family in helping swimmers pursue ambitious goals.

Along the way, Andrew reflects on preparing for marathon swims, overcoming setbacks, completing the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, and the lessons learned from more than two decades of returning to the same stretch of ocean.

At its heart, this is a conversation about good habits, great friends, staying curious, and why the challenge of open water swimming continues to draw us back year after year.

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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.