# Gertrude Ederle English Channel swim centennial

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/gertrude-ederle-english-channel-swim-centennial
> Updated: 2026-08-11T02:51:23.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

The centennial anniversary of Gertrude Ederle’s historic English Channel swim is being commemorated. In August 1926, Ederle became the first woman to complete the crossing, swimming from France’s Gris-Nez to England’s Kingstown in 14 hours and 39 minutes.

Her achievement surpassed the existing men’s record, despite rough seas that forced her to swim approximately 35 miles rather than the direct 21-mile route. Following her success, she was honored in New York City with a ticker-tape parade attended by an estimated two million people.

Commemorative events for the 100th anniversary include local activities in Highlands, New Jersey, at Popamora Point, featuring discussions and swims with athletes who have also completed the channel crossing.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-11: Gertrude Ederle's English Channel swim centennial

The centennial of Gertrude Ederle’s 1926 English Channel swim is being marked, honoring the first woman to complete the crossing and set a new world record for the feat.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gertrude-ederles-english-channel-swim-centennial

### 2026-08-05: Gertrude Ederle's 1926 English Channel Record Marks 100th Anniversary

In August 1926, 20‑year‑old American swimmer Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to cross the English Channel, beating the men’s record in 14 h 39 m; the feat is marked on its 100th anniversary.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gertrude-ederle-becomes-first-woman-to-swim-english-channel

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Cite as: Gertrude Ederle English Channel swim centennial. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/gertrude-ederle-english-channel-swim-centennial