Six elite open water swimmers from Bermuda are poised to conquer the challenging Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim, marking a significant international sporting endeavor for the island nation. The team comprising Lesley-Jane Smith, Harold Kahler, Handsome Williams, Tobias Ahlqvist, Craig Munden, and Scott Oliver will undertake the demanding 4.1-kilometer crossing on March 28, 2026.
The aquatic journey commences at Oualie Beach in Nevis and concludes at Cockleshell Bay in St Kitts, presenting unique marine conditions distinct from Bermuda’s familiar waters. The participants bring diverse athletic backgrounds to this prestigious Caribbean event, with several having distinguished themselves in local competitions including Round the Sound and Devil’s Mile challenges.
Lesley-Jane Smith, an accomplished triathlete, expressed particular enthusiasm for focusing exclusively on the swimming discipline. ‘Growing up as a competitive swimmer in Bermuda, this race feels especially exciting,’ Smith noted. ‘I’m looking forward to the opportunity to swim in a new setting and experience the unique challenge of crossing from Nevis to St Kitts.’
Handsome Williams emphasized the honor of representing Bermuda internationally in a sport deeply ingrained in the island’s culture. ‘I’m truly grateful for the chance to take on this amazing experience with friends,’ Williams stated. ‘Having grown up in the water back home, swimming has given me so much.’
Two-time national champion Craig Munden approaches the competition with measured optimism regarding his prospects. ‘Based on last year’s result I would say I have good chances, but it always depends on who turns up,’ Munden commented, referencing the 478 competitors from the UK, United States, and Caribbean regions who participated in the previous edition.
The Bermudian athletes anticipate navigating unfamiliar racing conditions including potential strong currents and larger waves than typically encountered in local events. The competition gains additional prestige with the participation of Alice Dearing, Great Britain’s first Black Olympic open water swimmer, whom Munden has previously trained alongside.
This international representation follows recent athletic achievements within Bermuda’s swimming community, including Madelyn Moore’s balancing of frontline work with elite competition and the recognition of Caitlyn Bobb and Sebastian Kempe as Athletes of the Year.