• Volcano Triathlon
Triathlon News

David Meca: 25 years later, he once again “escapes” from Alcatraz by swimming

David Meca, the legendary Spanish swimmer, has made history again by completing, 25 years later, the same “escape” from Alcatraz that launched him to stardom.

This past Monday, the 50-year-old swimmer dove into the icy waters of San Francisco Bay to face the challenge of swimming the 6 kilometers that separate the mythical prison from the coast. “It went very well, everything was perfect,” said Meca, visibly happy, in a phone call to EFE.

The challenge, a bet with friends and a demonstration of his indomitable spirit, revived that memorable day in 1999 when Meca, with shackles on his legs, swam to symbolize his fight against a doping sanction of which he always maintained his innocence.

This time, the journey was extended to 7,9 kilometers, even reaching the iconic Golden Gate and on dry land. “Not only have I achieved the challenge, but I have also traveled a little further to show them (my friends) that we are in shape,” he said, laughing.

The conditions, however, were not easy for Meca. Water at 14 degrees, strong currents and tide made progress difficult, and a thick fog forced the start to be delayed until midday. “But thank goodness it cleared up later and it was much better,” he said.

With his characteristic sense of humor, Meca did not forget the famous sharks of San Francisco Bay: “Thank goodness they told me about it afterwards, but with the shark issue, it seems that there have been quite a few cases of white sharks sighted in the area relatively recently. But well, they told me about it afterwards and I haven't seen any…”, he joked.

The Alcatraz crossing in 1999 was just the beginning of a career filled with impossible challenges for David Meca. The triple crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar and the conquest of the English Channel are just some examples of his determination. Meca was also world champion in long-distance swimming in 1998, 2000 and 2005, dominating the world rankings for four years.

The story of David Meca, an athlete who has challenged physical and mental limits, reminds us that passion and perseverance are key to achieving any goal, even the most challenging ones.

Drafting

Triathlon News Editorial: We are the award-winning team in 2019 and Best Triathlon Website, made up of communicators passionate about triathlon, with more than 14 years of experience. We strive to offer you the most accurate, relevant and up-to-date information, conveying the excitement and dedication that characterize this sport.
Button back to top