Closing Out the Season: Winning the French Creek Racing Fall SwimFest 5k at Hopewell Lake

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Closing Out the Season: Winning the French Creek Racing Fall SwimFest 5k at Hopewell Lake

Coach Dan Daly closes out his 2025 open water season with a first-place finish at the French Creek Racing Fall SwimFest 5K at Hopewell Lake. In this recap, he shares what makes Hopewell Lake swimming such a special experience — from the calm, scenic waters to the strong community behind French Creek Racing. Learn about the race conditions, key takeaways from the season, and how Dan is transitioning from open water endurance to pool speed training this winter.

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Manhattan Island Marathon Swim: My 7 Hour 35 Minute Journey

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Manhattan Island Marathon Swim: My 7 Hour 35 Minute Journey

On September 10, 2025, I completed my solo Manhattan Island Marathon Swim, covering the 28.5-mile current assisted marathon swim distance in 7 hours and 35 minutes. After years of coaching and crewing this event, I finally took on the challenge myself. From the fast chop of the East River to the long Harlem and the powerful Hudson, the day was a test of rhythm, patience, and resilience — the true essence of marathon swimming.

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Five Years Strong: My Journey at the Balaton Átúszás

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Five Years Strong: My Journey at the Balaton Átúszás

Five years, five wins – a tradition that has become both a personal benchmark and a celebration of consistency. Coach Dan Daly shares his journey at the Balaton Átúszás, Hungary’s iconic Lake Balaton swim. From pacing 1:31 per 100m to securing first in the M40 age group, he reflects on lessons learned in endurance, technique, and mindset that swimmers everywhere can apply to their own goals.

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Join Me in the Open Water: Open Water Swimming Events 2025

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Join Me in the Open Water: Open Water Swimming Events 2025

Swim with Coach Dan Daly for a season of unforgettable races across NYC and the Northeast — including the UrbanSwim: PRIDE and Liberty to Freedom swims, Lake George, and a solo 28.5-mile Manhattan Island Marathon. Whether you’re new to open water or looking to level up, these events offer the perfect mix of challenge, community, and coaching support. Explore the full race calendar, get inspired by past performances, and find out how to train smart and swim strong this season.

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The Ultimate Open Water Swimming Guide: Your Checklist to a Successful Swim

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The Ultimate Open Water Swimming Guide: Your Checklist to a Successful Swim

Open water swimming offers a unique thrill, but preparation is key for a safe and successful experience. From mastering race starts and sighting techniques to selecting the best open-water swimming goggles and wetsuits, this comprehensive checklist has you covered. Learn how to handle feeding, navigate turns, adapt to weather conditions, and stay safe in different water types. Whether you're training for open-water swimming events or just diving in for fun, this guide ensures you're ready to tackle every challenge confidently. Ready to dive in? Read the full article!

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