Open Water Swimming Gains Popularity Among Israeli Youth Ahead of Kinneret Speedo Crossing

The annual Speedo Crossing of the Sea of Galilee, named after Yaakov Hasid, is set for September 19 at Tzemach Beach, organized by the Kinneret Cities Association. This event attracts thousands of swimmers nationwide and highlights the growing trend of open water swimming, also known as "wild swimming," which has expanded globally in recent years.

A 2025 international study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology analyzed 1,200 open water swims across 19 countries and found that swimming in natural waters is linked to higher positive wellbeing compared to pool swimming. Researchers attribute this to feelings of autonomy and freedom in open environments versus the confined lanes of pools.

For 25-year-old Tel Aviv resident Shir Levy, open water swimming began spontaneously when she discovered the Speedo Crossing while buying swim gear. Despite limited swimming experience, she joined the event and found herself capable of much longer distances in the sea. This experience inspired her to create Swell Club, a social community that transforms swimming from a solitary sport into a group activity, emphasizing camaraderie and shared experiences.

Other young swimmers like Noa Chen, a former triathlete, and Naomi Ephraim from Emek Hefer, emphasize the social and liberating aspects of open water swimming. For 23-year-old Yuval Pateev, who was severely injured during his military service on October 7, open water swimming became a therapeutic refuge, offering peace and quiet during his recovery.

The Speedo Crossing event offers two popular routes of 1.5 km and 3.5 km, supported by safety measures including open water spotters, smart participant bracelets, rest rafts, kayaks, jet skis, and rescue teams. The event is held in partnership with the Jordan Valley Regional Council, the Jordan Valley Development Company, and the Kinneret Cities Association, with Speedo as the main sponsor.

This growing movement reflects how open water swimming provides diverse benefits, from physical challenge and mental therapy to community and freedom, drawing thousands annually to the Sea of Galilee.