Polish swimmer completes historic 160km Baltic Sea crossing

Dubbed "The Seal," Polish swimmer Bartłomiej Kubkowski has etched his name in history by successfully completing a grueling 160-kilometer swim across the Baltic Sea. The arduous journey took him 55 hours, with a support vessel accompanying him to manage navigation, safety, and provide sustenance. This remarkable feat marks Kubkowski's fifth attempt to conquer the challenging waters of the Baltic Sea.

Kubkowski, who holds a world record for 24-hour swimming, faced immense physical and mental trials. During his second sleepless night, he experienced severe physiological challenges, including hallucinations brought on by toxin buildup in his brain, which caused him to lose consciousness and his grip on reality at times. Intensive training and a strict diet, including 36-hour continuous swimming sessions and nighttime open-water training, were crucial in mitigating these effects. Despite the hardships, upon reaching his destination, Kubkowski stated he was "too tired to comprehend" his achievement.

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too tired to comprehend

This historic swim also served a noble cause. Funds raised through the "Cancer Fighters Foundation" will be directed towards supporting children undergoing cancer treatment. Notably, another Polish long-distance swimmer, Karolina Szczepaniak, a former Olympian, also began a swim from Sweden simultaneously, aiming to raise funds for a 14-year-old boy's medical rehabilitation. Her attempt, however, was halted after 58 hours in the Baltic Sea.

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Toxins accumulate in the brain, often causing hallucinations, due to which Bartek sometimes lost consciousness and connection with reality.