The English Channel, or as it’s known in Croatian, La Manche, is one of the most renowned and challenging destinations in the world of open water swimming. This sea passage between England and France stretches approximately 560 kilometres (300 nautical miles; 350 statute miles) in length, and varies in width from 240 km (130 nmi; 150 mi) at its broadest to just 34 km (18 nmi; 21 mi) at its narrowest point in the Strait of Dover. It is a true test of endurance, determination and mental strength. Only the bravest swimmers manage to conquer its cold currents, strong tides, and unpredictable weather conditions. Among them are three exceptional Croats who have etched their names into sporting history.
Veljko Rogošić – The Sea Man from Kaštela
The first Croatian to swim across the English Channel was the legendary Veljko Rogošić in 2004, achieving this feat at the age of 63. Not only did he become the first Croatian to do so, but also the oldest person ever to swim across the Channel.
Born in Kaštel Lukšić in 1941, Rogošić was a member of the Jadran Swimming Club in Split and a multiple record holder.
Just two years after his Channel swim, he set another record by swimming an incredible 225 kilometres across the Adriatic Sea, earning him a place in the Guinness Book of Records.
“It may not have been my greatest, but it was certainly my dearest achievement when I swam the English Channel in 2004. At 63, I could finally dedicate such a feat to Croatia,” Rogošić said in an interview.
His sporting life and achievements were documented in the film “Veljko od mora” (“Veljko of the Sea”), available on YouTube:https://youtu.be/xjZ8oBsoE4w?si=XXG9hd1bsMajmMIM
Toni Pavičić Donkić – Second Croatian to Conquer La Manche
After Rogošić, Toni Pavičić Donkić from Stari Grad became the second Croatian to swim the English Channel, completing the crossing in an impressive 9 hours and 45 minutes under very tough conditions, with sea temperatures around just 15°C. His result was the seventh fastest in the world that year (2006).
Pavičić Donkić began his swimming career at Faros Swimming Club before moving to Jadran in Split. He was also part of one of the strongest relay teams in the history of Croatian swimming.
In 2007, he accomplished yet another historic feat – becoming the first Croatian to swim across the Strait of Gibraltar, connecting Europe and Africa in 3 hours and 9 minutes, which was then the fourth best time in history.
Dina Levačić – The First Croatian Woman to Conquer the Channel
In August 2017, Dina Levačić from Split became the first Croatian woman to successfully swim across the English Channel. After 11 hours and 42 minutes of swimming, she fulfilled her lifelong dream and made history.
She also became only the sixth person in the world to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, a prestigious title awarded to those who swim the English Channel, circle Manhattan Island, and cross the Catalina Channel (California) – all within 90 days.
Dina’s achievement is an inspiration to many – not only to athletes, but to anyone who dares to dream big and face life’s challenges head-on.
The English Channel – A Symbol of Courage and Strength
For Veljko, Toni, and Dina, the English Channel was more than a sporting challenge. It symbolised personal victory, perseverance, and love for their homeland. Their accomplishments will remain forever written in the annals of Croatian sport and will continue to inspire future generations of open water swimmers.