Maury McKinney successfully completed an unprecedented 42-mile crossing of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s longest lake twice, in 26 hours to raise money for the White Mountain Aquatic Foundation, a proposed swim center in New Hampshire. "It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But the swim was a great experience. I’m proud of the accomplishment."Maury's swim, amid 3 escort boats and 4 kayaks, is shown in the video below:
As Maury said after the epic swim, "Everything I needed to know about how to do this swim I learned from climbing big mountains. Patience, strength, courage and determination were all lessons I learned while climbing that sustained me during some rather challenging moments during this swim. I'm so excited that we pulled it off and feel it is a testament to the power of family, friendship, teamwork and
community. I am humbled by the effort it required and the beauty of the natural resources we have here in New Hampshire. I am forever proud of our accomplishment. As Lance Armstrong said, 'Pain is temporary, but glory is forever.' There is no doubt that I did my fair share of suffering, but it was all worth it; every minute of it."
"The last three miles were emotionally overwhelming for me. I knew I was
going to make it and I just swam toward the end knowing I was being
sustained by the love for my family, friends and community. I believe this
experience has helped me to become a better swimmer, a better person, a
better husband, a better father and will help me to be a better teacher. I
am still smiling inside and out about this swim and I think that glow will
always be with me."
Upper photo by Anne Skidmore.
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