First person to swim across Lake Ontario, setting a record and inspiring a generation of swimmers.
Marilyn Bell, a Canadian retired long-distance swimmer, etched her name in the annals of history as the first person to swim across Lake Ontario, followed by feats in the English Channel and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Born on October 19, 1937, Bell's remarkable swimming career has inspired generations of athletes and enthusiasts alike.
Bell was born in Toronto, Ontario, to parents Sydney and Grace Bell. Her family moved to North Bay, Ontario, then Halifax, Nova Scotia, before returning to Toronto in 1946. It was during this period that Bell first took up swimming lessons at Oakwood Pool, joining the Dolphinette Club coached by Alex Duff.
In 1947, Bell entered her first long-distance race, a one-mile swim at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Lake Ontario. This marked the beginning of her remarkable journey, where she soon met her future coach Gus Ryder, who was coach of the Lakeshore Swimming Club. Bell's talent and dedication earned her a spot in the Lakeshore Club, and she began practicing at the indoor pool of Humberside Collegiate in Toronto.
In July 1954, Bell swam in the Centennial Marathon at Atlantic City, New Jersey, finishing first among women and seventh overall, winning $1,150. This achievement was soon followed by her iconic swim across Lake Ontario on September 8, 1954, making her the first person to accomplish this feat.
Bell's groundbreaking swims continued with her crossing of the English Channel in 1955 and the Strait of Juan de Fuca in 1956. These remarkable achievements solidified her position as a trailblazing long-distance swimmer, inspiring countless others to pursue the sport.
After her swimming career, Bell married Joe Di Lascio and moved to New Jersey, United States, where they raised four children. Bell earned a BA and became an American citizen, going on to teach for over twenty years. Joe Di Lascio passed away in 2007, and Bell later moved to New Paltz, New York.
Due to a back injury and scoliosis, Bell was forced to give up swimming in the early 2000s, relying on a motorized chair for mobility. However, with the help of swimming instructor Terry Laughlin, Bell was able to return to swimming in 2016, adapting her style to accommodate her physical limitations.
Marilyn Bell's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of long-distance swimming. Her achievements have inspired generations of athletes, and her determination and perseverance serve as a testament to the human spirit.
Today, Bell's legacy continues to inspire, with her name etched in the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame. Her remarkable story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a passion for the sport.
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