Maarten van der Weijden, the Dutch Olympic champion, made history by setting a new backward swimming world record on Saturday, December 28, 2025. The 44-year-old swimmer covered an impressive 17 kilometers in just eight hours at a pool in Zaltbommel, Netherlands. This achievement was not just about breaking a record; it was a powerful statement about resilience and perseverance.
In an interview, Van der Weijden shared a profound reason for his unique choice of swimming style: "Life can sometimes feel like it's slipping away from us. By swimming backward, I'm trying to shift my perspective and find a different angle to navigate through these challenges."
The event was a fundraising endeavor for cancer research, a cause close to his heart as he has battled the disease personally. The campaign aimed to raise 11,000 euros, and while the target was not fully met, the effort still garnered significant support from hundreds of donors, who collectively contributed 10,570 euros. Rubber ducks, adopted for 11 euros each, were released into the pool during the swim, creating a unique and heartwarming visual.
Van der Weijden's dedication to cancer research is not limited to this single event. Two years ago, he embarked on a seven-day challenge, covering 200 kilometers each in swimming, cycling, and running, raising an astonishing 3.7 million euros for cancer research. This new backward swimming record is yet another testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause.
The previous world record for backward swimming stood at 15.66 kilometers, set in Ireland in 2022. Van der Weijden's achievement surpasses this by a significant margin, solidifying his place in swimming history. After the swim, he celebrated with champagne, expressing his joy and exhaustion, stating, 'I'm extremely happy. I feel quite euphoric and also a bit exhausted.'
This remarkable feat not only showcases Van der Weijden's athletic prowess but also highlights his ability to turn a personal challenge into a powerful force for good, inspiring others to join the fight against cancer.
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