Joao is an incredible swimmer, diving into a challenge of swimming 100 km for Laps for Life this year.

This is his fourth year taking part in the challenge. His motivation? To make a difference in the life of even just one young person impacted by mental health challenges.

Here he shares about his Laps for Life journey and his tips for anyone who wants to embrace ocean swimming… 

What club do you swim for and what role do you play in that club?

I currently swim with the Salty Coffee Ocean Swimmers (a group I created) in Manly, Sydney. We meet most mornings for a swim and of course a coffee and chat. On a more serious note, I also take part in an open water training squad with Vlad Swim. This group really helps me with getting ready for some long swims including Palm Beach to Shelly Beach (26kms) – which I will be completing in April 2026. 

What are your Laps for Life goals and why is the fundraiser important to you? 

This is the fourth year that I am taking part in Laps for Life! Each year I increase my swim distance and fundraising goals. This year, I aim to swim 100km across the month and raise over $1,500. 

I also really want to spread the word about mental health and the great work of ReachOut in supporting young people across Australia. This fundraiser is deeply important to me because if I can assist in saving even a single life, it would be monumental. Mental health, especially in young people, is a serious crisis affecting many today. I have experienced depression myself, and I know that at times it can all seem too hard and not worth it. However, with the right support, we can together change this narrative. 

What’s your advice to anyone thinking about trying ocean swimming? 

If you’re considering trying ocean swimming, my advice is to take the plunge! Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Ocean swimming is the most amazing sport: you can have full contact and immersion in nature, observe sea life, feel the ocean’s energy, exercise, learn about a different environment, make friends, “drink coffee”, and build a support network of people who will be there for you. Ocean swimming has been the “salvation” for many people, and there are many stories to share.
• Start slow, know your limits, seek support, and learn from others. There will be days when the ocean will not want to “talk” with you, and that’s fine. We need to learn to respect, understand, and protect the ocean.
• Be prepared to embrace something that you have no control over—embrace its power and develop a relationship with it. Always swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present, check weather and tide conditions, and never swim alone. 
• Begin with shorter swims to get accustomed to the saltwater, waves, and temperature, gradually increasing your distance as you gain confidence and endurance.
• Invest in proper gear, like swim goggles and a wetsuit, if needed, to enhance your experience. 
• Focus on your breathing, enjoy the natural surroundings, and let the rhythmic motion of the waves calm your mind. 
• Joining a local ocean swimming group can provide camaraderie, support, and guidance from experienced swimmers. 
• Listen to your body and respect your limits, building up your stamina gradually.

Ocean swimming offers a unique blend of physical exercise, mental relaxation, and social connection. It’s a fantastic way to stay fit, relieve stress, and connect with nature. Take that first step and dive into the wonderful world of ocean swimming!

Laps for Life is open to everyone across Australia whether you’re new to swimming or an experienced swimmer, for more information and registration visit lapsforlife.com.au.

Join the journey and stay connected by following Laps for Life on socials, visit @LapsForLife.Aus on Facebook and Instagram or share your Laps for Life journey with the hashtags #LapsforLife #LapsForLife2025 #SwimtoSaveLives. For more information about ReachOut, visit ReachOut and ReachOut Parents.