Croatian named world’s best open water swimmer

Dina Levačić (Photo: Private album)

Croatia’s Dina Levačić has been selected as the Swimmer of the Year by the World Open Water Swimming Association for 2023. 

Her achievements were recognised by both the public through their votes and by the expert commission, predominantly composed of open water swimmers from around the globe.

Dina’s crossings of Cook’s Passage, Galway Bay, Fastnet Rock, and the Bristol Channel in 2023 received the highest acknowledgment and once again placed Croatia at the top of this selection ahead of the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland and other nations. 

Dina Levačić (Photo: Private album)

“This is a great recognition and award for me, but also for all of you who have given me your vote and sent countless messages of support. A big thank you to the members of the expert commission who evaluated my swims with the highest number of votes. This way, ‘small’ Croatia has reached the highest step of this selection. Now, onwards to new adventures, stronger, more determined, and even more resolute,” Dina said.

Dina Levačić (Photo: Private album)

Her next challenge takes her to the shores of South Africa, where she hopes to become the first ever person from Croatia to complete the iconic Robben Island swim. 

Dina will also aim to tackle False Bay, a 33-kilometre stretch in the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean and also Cap Point and Cape of Good Hope.