The International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF) has inducted 16 new members. The “Class of 2018” highlights the global nature and diversity of marathon swimming, with 13 different countries represented, more women than men, a wide range of ages and an impressive spectrum of achievements. Those recognised included world champions, Olympians, record breakers, coaches and volunteers. Among the recipients of the coveted green sash were Trent Grimsey, the current English Channel world record holder in a staggering time of 6hrs 55 minutes; Sarah Thomas, world record holder for the longest ever marathon swim of 104.6 miles; and Jacques Tuset, who adds an unusual twist to his marathon swims – he “escapes” from prison islands. He has escaped from 25 so far.
The full list of recipients honoured this year is: Cindy Cleveland (USA), Albert Coward (GBR), Pilar Geijo (ARG), Martina Grimaldi (ITA), Trent Grimsey (AUS), Zhang Jian (CHN), Linda Kaiser (USA), Kathrin Lammers (GER), Mohamed Ahmed Marouf (EGY), Jaimie Monahan (USA), Rohan Dattatry More (IND), Anna-Carin Nordin (SWE), Poliana Okimoto (BRA), Sarah Thomas (USA), Hugh Tucker (RSA) and Jacques Tuset (FRA).