Mercedes Gleitze

Brighton born and the first British woman to swim the English Channel.

(So English!)

Mercedes Gleitze

March 8th, International Women’s Day and we’re celebrating the life and achievements of a pioneer of open water swimming.

Over the past century, Mercedes’ accomplishments have largely slipped from the public consciousness but her profile is being raised with the release of a new film ‘Vindication Swim’, which tells the story of her channel crossing and the controversy that surrounded it.

On October 7, 1927 Mercedes swam the English Channel from Calais to Dover in 15 hours and 15 minutes (her eighth attempt) and etched her name in history. She was the first British woman to do it.

Mercedes achieved the unthinkable by conquering the English Channel in a remarkable 15 hours and 15 minutes, while enduring sea temperatures that never rose above 15 degrees C°. As she staggered up the beach in England, she not only completed the swim but also made history as the first British woman to achieve this incredible feat.

However, her record was challenged by Dr Dorothy Cochrane Logan who claimed to have completed the crossing in less than 13 hours. Although this was exposed as a hoax, it undermined her victory and she was pressured by the media to agree to a ‘vindication swim’ just two weeks later. She was unsuccessful in that attempt, (the water was significantly colder), but it did restore her credibility. She went on to complete a swag of other challenges including the Straits of Gibralter, the Isle of Man and the Hellespont (Turkey).

Mercedes also shattered the British endurance swimming record in 1933 at Worthing Baths, swimming an astonishing 46 hours. The 26-year-old typist, who had narrowly escaped a steamer collision during her swim, sustained herself on a diet of grapes, honey, cocoa, and tea provided from the lone rowing boat accompanying her.

In an era where female sports celebrities were a rarity, Mercedes Gleitze's career took her on a global odyssey. She became a sensation, drawing crowds wherever she ventured. Her star shone so bright that Rolex honoured her by naming a watch after her. (She had worn a Rolex Oyster watch around her neck during the crossing).

Mercedes Gleitze's story is not just a tale of triumph over the elements but a testament to resilience, determination and the unyielding spirit of a pioneer. As 'Vindication Swim' prepares to unveil this remarkable chapter in history, we are reminded of the extraordinary women who defied the odds and paved the way for generations to come.