My story with swimming began a long time ago, practically in my childhood. It was my father who enrolled me in swimming lessons when I was still a child. At the time, I might not have realized it, but that was the beginning of a relationship that would stay with me for life.
Throughout my youth, swimming was always part of my life. In adulthood, I trained at university, and after graduating, I kept a fairly consistent routine. When I lived in São Paulo, Brazil, I used to swim two to three times a week. That was my moment: discipline, focus, and that unique feeling of leaving the pool with a clear mind and a renewed body.
Over time, the rush of daily life, changes in my professional and personal life, and even my dedication to other sports caused swimming to take a back seat. It wasn’t a conscious decision—it just happened.
In 2024, already living with my family in Portugal, the opportunity to reconnect with swimming came up. A friend started inviting me to swim in open water. At first, I admit I was hesitant. The sea seemed far too challenging—especially because of the water temperature. But after much persistence (and I’m glad she kept insisting!), I accepted the invitation.
That’s how I started swimming in the sea and joined Swim4Fun.
Since then, it’s been an incredible experience. Being in direct contact with the sea brings a feeling unlike anything I had ever experienced in a pool. There’s something special about swimming in open water—the connection with nature, the sound of the waves, the vastness all around.
At first, I was apprehensive because of the cold water. But with the right gear—especially a neoprene wetsuit—the temperature stops being a problem and becomes just another part of the challenge.
Today, looking back, I realize that swimming has always found a way to come back into my life. Whether it was in the pool of my childhood, at university, in São Paulo, or now in the sea in Portugal, it remains much more than just a sport. It’s balance, resilience, and a connection with myself..
Willian Rodrigues