Today, I participated in the Maggie Fischer Memorial Cross Bay Swim, an event that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Starting at Fire Island and swimming across the Great South Bay to Bay Shore, this 5.5-mile swim was a culmination of months of preparation, determination, and reflection.
The Journey to the Bay
The story didn’t start today—it began months ago when I first committed to this challenge. Training became a ritual, a rhythm of early mornings and long swims. My friend and training buddy, Ray, was by my side for countless laps in Tobay. We were later joined by Justin, who was also preparing for the Cross Bay Swim, and Fred, who joined us for a memorable four-mile swim. I even trained with Brian a few times, following his kayak to get used to swimming alongside it—a skill that would prove invaluable today.
This wasn’t my first time doing the Cross Bay Swim. In 2021, I completed it with my son, Derek. That experience was unforgettable, but today was different. The conditions, the mindset, and the journey all came together to create something truly special.
Race Day: A Cloudy Start
The day began early—4:30 a.m. to be exact—at the ferry terminal in Bay Shore. The air was thick with anticipation as I waited for the ferry to take us to Fire Island. While I didn’t see anyone I knew at first, I had a chance to chat with Bob Fischer, the race organizer, before boarding the boat. The ride across the bay was serene, though cloudy skies meant no breathtaking sunrise. Instead, I watched the moon set over the Fire Island Lighthouse—a quiet, beautiful moment that set the tone for the day.
Once on Fire Island, I picked up my race packet and Brian’s pinney and whistle. Brian, my kayaker for the day, paddled over to meet me, and seeing him arrive was a huge relief. The next hour and a half flew by as I prepared, put on my wetsuit, and mentally readied myself for the challenge ahead.
Into the Water
Before I knew it, we were in the water, and the countdown began. The first three miles were a dream. I found myself in the pack, moving quickly—one mile in just 30 minutes! The water was calm, though patches of seaweed kept tangling around my arms, legs, and even my neck. Every 30 minutes, Brian handed me a gel, water, or my InfinitNutrition, keeping me fueled and focused. He was incredible, constantly encouraging me and letting me know we were near the top of the pack.
But then, the final stretch hit. The last mile and a half brought waves that tossed me up and down, pulling me off course. Brian’s shouts of “Head toward the fence!” were my lifeline as I fought the current. The finish line felt impossibly far, but I kept pushing.
The Finish Line
Crossing the finish line was euphoric. I clocked in at 3:43—nearly 30 minutes faster than my 2021 time. The cut-off was four hours, and I made it with time to spare. Exhausted but exhilarated, I was greeted by Kerri, one of my running group friends, who handed me M&Ms and water. Her kindness was a perfect reminder of the incredible support system I’ve had throughout this journey.
I saw familiar faces at the finish—Tom, Yves, Fred, and even Bryan Krut, the man who taught me how to swim nearly a decade ago. It felt poetic to share this moment with him, knowing how far I’ve come since those first lessons.
Thoughts in the Water
During the swim, I didn’t listen to music. Instead, I was alone with my thoughts. I thought about my husband, who, while not always understanding my passion for these events, supported me with a great dinner the night before. I thought about my kids—Derek, who swam this race with me in 2021, and my beautiful daughter and her son. I thought about my dad, who loved watching me race and would have adored this event. I thought about my friend and training partner—Ray. And, I thought about Justin, and Brian, my kayaker. I kept thinking how lucky I am to have them all in my life.
I also reflected on my journey as a swimmer. In 2014, I didn’t even know how to swim. Today, I’m an endurance swimmer, channeling the strength of women like Gertrude Ederle and Maggie Fischer. Every six to eight strokes, a new thought or memory would flash through my mind, keeping me focused and motivated.
What’s Next?
As I write this, I’m three weeks away from my next challenge: the 8.2-mile swim around Mackinac Island in Michigan. Today’s race was a test of my training and mental fortitude, and I feel ready for what’s to come.
The Maggie Fischer Cross Bay Swim is more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. I’m grateful for every moment, every stroke, and every person who made this experience unforgettable.
