Born: 1964 (London, UK)
Allison Streeter is a renowned English long-distance swimmer who has made a significant impact on the world of open water swimming. Born on December 16, 1964, in London, Streeter discovered her passion for swimming at a young age and soon realized her potential for endurance swimming.
Streeter’s swimming career took off in the 1980s when she began participating in various long-distance swims. In 1984, she achieved her first notable accomplishment, setting a world record for both men and women by completing the Round Isle of Wight swim, totaling 100 kilometers, in an impressive time of 21 hours and 2 minutes.
Continuing to push her limits, Streeter made history in 1988 when she became the first woman to swim across the North Channel, a treacherous stretch of water between Northern Ireland and Scotland. Not only did she accomplish this feat once, but she repeated it in 1989 and again in 1997. These achievements solidified Streeter’s reputation as one of the most accomplished open water swimmers in the world.
However, Streeter’s most remarkable achievement came in the form of her English Channel crossings. Over the course of her career, she successfully swam across the English Channel an incredible 43 times, setting a new record for the highest number of crossings. Her first Channel swim in 1988 set a female record of 8 hours and 48 minutes, showcasing her remarkable speed and endurance in the water. In 1990, she became the first woman to swim the Channel three ways non-stop, completing the challenging feat in 34 hours and 40 minutes.
Streeter’s dedication to her sport extended beyond her remarkable achievements. In addition to being a successful long-distance swimmer, she also worked as a currency trader in London. However, her love for swimming ultimately led her to seek a career as a Channel Swim boat pilot, dividing her time between Adelaide (Seacliff) and Dover during the summers.
Streeter’s incredible abilities and inspiring accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. In 1991, she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of her swimming prowess and charity fundraising efforts. To date, she has raised over £100,000 for various charitable causes.
In 2006, Streeter’s contributions to the world of swimming were further acknowledged when she was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor solidified her status as a true legend in the swimming community and a role model for aspiring athletes.
Allison Streeter’s determination, talent, and extraordinary achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of open water swimming. She has not only shattered records and pushed the boundaries of human capability but has also inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams and passions. Her legacy will forever be remembered as an icon and trailblazer in women’s history.
Awards:
– Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) – 1991
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame – 2006