How a Late Swim Lesson Sparked a Lifelong Love for Water

Swimming has been a lifelong journey for one enthusiast, starting from a late but determined lesson at 17. Over the years, the sport has taken them across the globe, from oceans to serene lakes. Now, it remains a steady part of their weekly routine, offering both exercise and reflection. The journey began at Camp Lighthall, where a 17-year-old finally learned to swim. The opportunity came thanks to the Fresh Air Fund, a charity supporting camp access for children since 1901. That first lesson sparked a lasting passion.

Years later, in 2011, a move to a condo with a pool marked a new chapter. Formal swimming lessons followed, refining strokes like crawl and breaststroke. The condo’s pool, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace, became a daily retreat.

Travel brought more chances to dive in. Three oceans, two seas, the Persian Gulf, and Vietnam’s Halong Bay all hosted swims. One memorable moment came in Halifax, where a lack of swimsuit almost stopped a dip in the Atlantic—until a quick fix allowed a spontaneous plunge.

Decades after that first lesson, a return to Lac Cloutier offered a poignant swim. The inky black water beyond the cement block held memories, now revisited with stronger strokes and deeper appreciation.

Today, the routine is simple but disciplined. Three times a week, after work, 30 lengths are completed in 30 minutes. Breaststroke, backstroke, side stroke, and front crawl rotate, each lap a mix of effort and ease. From a hesitant beginner to a globetrotting swimmer, the journey spans decades and countless bodies of water. The rhythm of regular laps now bookends workdays, blending fitness with quiet moments. For this swimmer, the pool—and the open water—remains a place of both challenge and comfort.