Crocodile Menace: Swimmer Breaks Record in 55km River Race

Andy Donaldson smashed the record for the longest solo swim in Australia’s crocodile-infested Ord River, completing the 55-kilometer challenge in under 12 hours. The British-Australian ultramarathon swimmer faced a terrifying start: a 2.5-meter freshwater crocodile waited on the ramp as he began the Dam to Dam Challenge in Western Australia’s East Kimberley region. Donaldson said the constant risk of wildlife attacks was “nerve-racking” throughout the grueling endurance event. He set out to become the first man to finish the route from Lake Argyle to Kununurra. His team stayed alert for danger, but the crocodile at the start line served as an immediate reminder of the stakes. Donaldson completed the journey successfully, setting a record pace for the demanding river crossing.