Swimming the Hellespont
The Hellespont is undoubtedly one of the most significant open water swims in the world. In 1810, Lord Byron the English Poet became the first known person to swim across the Hellespont from Europe to Asia. He swam it in honour of Leander, who in Greek Mythology, would swim nightly across this stretch of water to his lover Hero. In 2010, to mark the bicentenery of Byrons acheivement, 140 swimmers braved the cold waters and swift currents to attempt the historic crossing.
Commissioned by The New Review
Swimmers at the start of the crossing are greased up to prevent chaffing
Swimmers line the water's edge on the European side of the Hellespont
Moments after the current Lord Byron fires the starting gun swimmers rush into the water
As the field spreads out swimmers begin to find their rhythm
The leaders group, setting a fast pace despite strong winds and currents
Channel swimmer Colin Hill powers through the water as he breaks away from the leading group
Local fishermen act as guides, herding straying swimmers
Harsher conditions than expected meant most swimmers took over two hours to complete the crossing
An exhausted swimmer nears the finish-line
Local crowds cheer jubilant swimmers arriving at the finish
After two hours or more in the water some swimmers need help climbing the stairs to the shore
Towels and hot drinks are on hand at the finish to warm the swimmers