Delirium, painkillers: swimmers conquer Hong Kong seas over 21 hours

A Historic Swim Around Hong Kong

After 20 hours and 56 minutes of continuous swimming, Simon Holliday pulled himself up the steps of Disneyland Pier, his knees nearly giving way. With this, he completed a world-first feat — circling Hong Kong Island as part of an epic relay.

The Challenge

The swim tested the endurance and willpower of all participants. Fighting against fatigue, fluctuating tides, and stinging jellyfish, Holliday also battled the onset of delirium as exhaustion took over. Painkillers helped him push through the final stretch.

The Team Effort

The endeavor united a determined group of swimmers who rotated shifts to cover over 45 kilometers of open sea. Support crews followed closely, ensuring hydration, nutrition, and safety throughout the long night.

Meaning Beyond Records

For Holliday, the crossing carried deeper meaning. It symbolized resilience and community spirit in the face of Hong Kong’s unpredictable waters. His team’s accomplishment added a new chapter to the island’s open-water swimming history.

“It’s not just about endurance; it’s about teamwork and belief,” Holliday said after reaching the pier.

Summary

A 21-hour swim around Hong Kong tested human endurance, teamwork, and mental strength, setting a remarkable world first in open-water history.

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AFP on MSN AFP on MSN — 2025-11-25

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