Greek Paralympian Charalampos Taiganides has successfully completed an unprecedented feat, setting a new world record for continuous open-water swimming with a distance of 149 kilometres from Paphos to Larnaca.
In a statement, Taiganides’s support team expressed “deep emotion and immense pride” as they confirmed the record-breaking achievement, describing it as a “global message of endurance and humanity.”
The Chronicle of the Feat: 149km of Soul and Willpower
According to official GPS data from the escort boats- connected to the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOSA)- Taiganides covered a verified distance of 149km.
Putting the record in perspective
To put the feat in perspective, the English Channel- one of the world’s best-known endurance swims- spans roughly 34 kilometres. Charalampos’s journey from Paphos to Larnaca was more than four times that distance, through busy coastal waters near Limassol and under changing weather conditions, making his achievement all the more extraordinary — particularly as a Paralympian.
A Dramatic Final Day
The final stage became a fierce battle against the elements.
- From the early morning hours, weather conditions worsened, with Taiganides swimming against headwinds of 3 Beaufort.
- Tension rose as the sea grew rougher, with wind speeds reaching 5 to 6 Beaufort, making conditions extremely dangerous and demanding.
Exhaustion and Triumph
Completely exhausted from the superhuman effort, the athlete was brought aboard the escort vessel 4.5 kilometres before the planned finish point, after judges confirmed he had already surpassed the world record distance. His safety and health remained the top priority.
Immediately after disembarking at Larnaca’s fishing harbour, Taiganides was taken by ambulance to Larnaca General Hospital for treatment and precautionary medical examinations.
“We are immensely proud of Charalampos, who has once again proven that limits exist only to be surpassed,” the team said. “This achievement is not merely a record- it is a victory of the soul, of solidarity, and a beacon of inspiration for everyone, especially the children supported through this effort. Thank you for your crucial support.”
Also read: Karolina Pelendritou wins silver at World Championship
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