In September last year, I started swimming in open water with a very simple yet meaningful goal: to complete the crossing of the Guadiana River in Alcoutim. A popular event that has been held for many years and continues to bring together people of all ages.
I clearly remember that the year before, I was watching the crossing almost jokingly and said, “Next year, that’ll be me out there.” I said it without much certainty, but with something inside me telling me not to forget that idea.
My cousin was the first to believe in me and encourage me. The distance may be short, but for an insecure woman, afraid of the unknown and of stepping outside her comfort zone, it felt like a huge challenge.
That’s how I decided to join the Swim4Fun club. The Alcoutim crossing was the starting point — it sparked the desire and paved the way for something bigger.
Today, I find myself registered for the Setúbal Open Water Race, ready to take on this new challenge.
Life is made of exactly this: challenges, decisions, and the courage to step outside our comfort zone. Because that’s where we grow, evolve, and surprise ourselves.
Beatriz Nobre