SPORT EXTRA – Diana Nyad: A swimming icon’s incredible journey

Diana Nyad is an American long-distance swimmer who has made a big splash in the world of swimming, inspiring people all over the globe with her incredible effort of endurance and determination. She gained international recognition for her extraordinary achievement in 2013 when, at the age of 64, she successfully swam from Havana, Cuba to Key West, Florida without the aid of a shark cage. Early Life Born on August 22, 1949, in the bustling city of New York, Diana Nyad discovered her love for swimming at a young age. Growing up in the coastal state of Florida, she had plenty of opportunities to dive into the refreshing waters. She spent countless hours perfecting her swimming skills and developed a deep passion for the sport. Education Diana started her swimming journey at Pine Crest School under the guidance of Coach Jack Nelson. Despite facing challenges and speaking out about the abuse she experienced, she excelled in high school, winning three Florida state championships. After graduating in 1967, she attended Emory University but was expelled for a daring stunt: she jumped out from a window wearing a parachute. She then went to Lake Forest College in Illinois, where she focused on […]