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Welcome to the Clever Dicks Swim Podcast, where we dive into the stories of passionate open water swimmers who push the limits of endurance and determination. Today, we’re talking to Jan Steenkamp, an inspiring swimmer based in Auckland.

Jan’s journey in the water began in high school, but it was eight years ago when he decided to get back into the water with a mission. In one of the most ambitious feats in the world of open water swimming, Jan attempted the daunting 80km Double Lake Taupo swim. Though he didn’t finish that first try, he didn’t give up. Instead, he tweaked is approach, toned down the training and worked on his feeds, and came back two years later with his gang of mates to become just the 5th person ever to complete this incredible challenge.

Jan has proved that perseverance and the will to learn from failure can lead to greatness. Get ready for an inspiring chat about what it really takes to go the distance.

Let’s dive in!

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In this episode, we dive into the swim journey of ultra-marathon swimmer Jono Ridler, whose relentless determination took him from a debilitating shoulder injury to one of the most awe-inspiring endurance feats in New Zealand’s waters—his 99km, 33-hour swim from Great Barrier Island to Takapuna. Jono shares the mental and physical battles he faced, from hallucinations to the discipline required to balance elite-level swimming with everyday life.

We explore the mindset that fuels such extreme endurance, the lessons learned from pushing to the limit, and what it takes to keep going when every part of you is screaming to stop.

If you’re fascinated by resilience, ocean swimming, and the power of the human spirit, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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Today, we’re a little late in flying the flag in support of Nick Edwards, who made a gallant effort for 13 hours swimming across this massive stretch of water called the Cook Strait, battling fierce currents, icy temps, and unpredictable conditions.

Unfortunately the ocean was not working with Nick today and the cold and huge currents put an end to his swim. But, he was not out there swimming on his own - his swim was to raise awareness for ovarian cancer, a disease that affects thousands yet remains widely under-recognized.

Every year, over 300,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and early detection is critical. Nick’s mission is to spark conversations, push for awareness, and, most importantly, raise funds to support research and those affected.

Want to support Nick’s incredible journey? Donate now by clicking on the link below and help make a difference.

https://showup.ovariancancerfoundation.org.nz/nick-edwards