Peruvian Lorena Costa will swim around Manhattan Island

Compatriot will swim 48 km in search of completing the triple crown of swimming

Lorena Costa Bedoya, at 39 years old, is an example of dedication and perseverance in swimming. After completing the Olaya crossing three times, the 22 kilometers between Chorrillos and La Punta, she is preparing to face a new and monumental challenge: to swim around the island of Manhattan.

On July 23, Lorena will swim 48 kilometers, accompanied only by a kayak for her safety, in a personal challenge that not only seeks physical improvement, but also mental improvement.

His goal is to become part of the exclusive group of swimmers who have achieved the Triple Crown of Swimming, a feat that includes crossing the English Channel and swim from Catalina Island to Los Angeles. To date, only two Peruvians, Gustavo Lores and Eduardo Collazos, have achieved this feat, and Lorena is determined to join them.

It is worth noting that Lorena Costa wakes up every morning at five o’clock to train in the Planet Aqua pool with her trainer, Giuliana Belaunde, until eight o’clock. Then, she goes to work, demonstrating that discipline and organization are key in her life.

She complements her aquatic training with strength exercises at the gym, a routine that she considers essential to endure the long hours of swimming. Lorena knows that her preparation is not just physical; mental strength plays a crucial role.

“I’m going to finish because I’ve prepared and trained. I’m doing this because I want to, nobody is forcing me, I like it and I can do it because that’s what I train for,” he said.

Despite not having government support, Lorena has found in private companies an essential backing for her competitions. Each participation represents a considerable investment, approximately 12 thousand dollars, which covers registration, travel and training. Even so, her motivation is unwavering.

Inspired by the achievements of Gustavo Lores and Eduardo Collazos, the athlete aspires not only to complete the return to Manhattan, but to continue with the Triple Crown. Her plan is clear: upon returning to Lima in August, she will seek to secure a spot to swim in Catalina next year and finally, in 2026, face the English Channel.