Last Saturday, Moroccan swimmer Hassan Baraka made history by swimming across the English Channel, a daunting 55 km stretch between England and France, becoming the first Moroccan to achieve this remarkable feat.
Baraka’s journey began in Dover, UK, and concluded at Cap Blanc-Nez in Pas-de-Calais, France. He completed the swim in 15 hours and 55 minutes, a testament to years of rigorous training and participation in long-distance races under varying weather conditions.
Facing numerous challenges, Baraka braved frigid waters ranging from 12 to 14 degrees Celsius, strong currents, and the cover of darkness. His swim commenced at 3:14 AM UK time and ended at 8:04 PM French time, illustrating both his endurance and determination.
Born in 1987 in Tetouan, Hassan Baraka shared that he waited for optimal weather conditions before embarking on this challenge. He noted that the cold water, jellyfish, and marine currents were significant hurdles. Reflecting on his achievement, Baraka expressed his joy in crossing the finish line and his pride in putting Morocco on the map of nationalities that have successfully crossed the Channel.
Baraka is no stranger to impressive feats. He is the first Moroccan swimmer to complete the International Marathon (seven marathons in seven days on seven continents). His resume also includes crossings of the Bosphorus, the Strait of Gibraltar, and swims between Papua New Guinea and Indonesia (9 km in 3 hours and 46 minutes), as well as Egypt to Saudi Arabia (28.11 km).
In his declaration to the Moroccan Press Agency (MAP), Baraka said, “The most important thing is that I crossed the finish line.” His successful swim across the English Channel is a milestone for Moroccan sports and a testament to his extraordinary athleticism.
