Azerbaijani amateur athletes Boris and Diana Najafov have left their mark in the history of open-water swimming by crossing the Strait of Bonifacio, located between the islands of Sardinia and Corsica.
Sea-news.az reports that Boris Najafov crossed the strait in both directions—forward and back. He covered a distance of approximately 27 to 30 kilometers without a wetsuit in nearly 12 hours.
Diana Najafova, meanwhile, became the first Azerbaijani woman to conquer the Strait of Bonifacio by swimming a distance of over 13 kilometers in a wetsuit.
The swim, held in difficult conditions characterized by strong currents, waves, and jellyfish, was organized by Spain’s “Neda-El-Mon” club. Swimmers from 8 countries participated in the event.
The Strait of Bonifacio is known for its challenging conditions for open-water swimming enthusiasts. According to the rules, participants are not allowed to touch the escort boat accompanying them during the swim. Water and nutrition are consumed directly in the water during brief breaks provided approximately every 45 minutes.
The Najafovs’ crossing of the Strait of Bonifacio was the result of long-term preparation and years of open-water swimming experience.
