The Australian Long Distance Swimming Federation has rebranded as Marathon Swimming Australia, uniting 51 years of history with a new database, global standards, and stronger recognition for swimmers and events.
Australia has a long, proud history in marathon swimming. From legendary channel crossings to epic homegrown endurance swims, our coastline has tested – and inspired – generations of swimmers. Now, that history is being given new life, as the Australian Long Distance Swimming Federation (ALDSF) transitions into its new identity: Marathon Swimming Australia (MSA).
The ALDSF has been the custodian of marathon swimming in Australia since 1973. After 51 years of service, the rebrand signals more than just a new name. It’s a move to modernise, align with international best practice, and provide Australian swimmers with the recognition and support they deserve.
“MSA reflects both continuity and modernisation,” says Christian Renford, President of Marathon Swimming Australia and grandson of the late Des Renford, Australia’s most famous marathon swimmer. “We’re building on half a century of history while positioning ourselves to serve the sport for the next 50 years.”
At the heart of the rebrand is a desire to unify and showcase the achievements of Australian swimmers. MSA will house the Australian Long Swims Database, a centralised archive where every swim – past and present – can be recorded, preserved, and celebrated.
“For the first time, our history, records, and incredible swims will be together in one trusted place,” says Renford. “Whether you’ve swum a local channel or crossed the English Channel, your effort deserves to be recognised as part of Australia’s story.”
Swimmers attempting big challenges will also benefit from streamlined processes for safety and ratification, aligned with the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA).
Some things won’t change. The Australian Triple Crown – the 25 km Port to Pub in WA, the 34 km Derwent River Big Swim in Tasmania, and the 26 km Palm Beach to Shelly Beach in NSW – remains the benchmark for endurance swimmers.
“These three swims represent the pinnacle of our sport here in Australia,” says Renford. “What will change is the profile and credibility we can give them. Under MSA, the Triple Crown will be promoted nationally and internationally, and every swimmer who achieves it will have their name etched into our sport’s history.”
One of the first priorities of MSA has been safeguarding more than five decades of records and honour rolls from the ALDSF. Every achievement has been carried forward onto the new platform, ensuring that pioneers and champions are remembered alongside today’s marathon swimmers.
“We’re deeply committed to preserving the legacy of the sport,” says Renford. “The courage of our pioneers is the foundation we all stand on, and it’s vital that their stories inspire future generations.”
Solo swimmers will find clearer pathways under MSA, including access to accredited observers, simplified documentation, and tailored insurance – particularly valuable for those travelling internationally.
“Undertaking a marathon swim is daunting enough,” Renford says. “We want to remove barriers and give swimmers confidence that their efforts will be judged fairly and recognised globally.”
Event organisers will also benefit from MSA’s alignment with WOWSA, with frameworks for safety, promotion, and insurance that strengthen both credibility and participation.
MSA is volunteer-driven and community-led. Observers, support crews, and officials are the backbone of the sport, and the new national body is inviting people to get involved in all sorts of roles – from recording swims to cheering them on.
“There’s a place for everyone in marathon swimming,” says Renford. “Every observer, every volunteer, every supporter helps make this sport what it is. That’s why community will always be at the heart of MSA.”
Through its partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, MSA also offers supporters a way to contribute financially to the growth and safety of the sport, with tax-deductible donations directly funding initiatives for swimmers and organisers.
So what does success look like for Marathon Swimming Australia? Renford is clear:
“It’s a thriving national database that records every swim. It’s world-class safety frameworks with trained observers. It’s Australian swimmers and events recognised globally. And most of all, it’s a united community that honours our past and embraces the future.”
With a new name, a fresh platform, and a clear vision, Marathon Swimming Australia is ready to lead the sport into its next era – one that promises to celebrate every stroke of Australia’s marathon swimming journey.
To explore the new platform, view the Australian Long Swims Database, learn about the Australian Triple Crown, or find out how to become an observer or supporter, visit marathon-swimming.org.au. Follow Marathon Swimming Australia on social media to stay up to date with swim announcements, ratifications, athlete profiles and community news, and be part of the next chapter of Australian marathon swimming.
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