HOMETOWN: I grew up in Westbrook, Maine and now call San Antonio, Texas my home
BLS EXPERIENCE: Rookie (Fogged out in 2024)
Attila Manyoki
NAME: Attila Manyoki
HOMETOWN: Budapest
BLS EXPERIENCE: Rookie
WHY BLS? Fantastic history and I would like to enjoy this iconic event.
WHO IS YOUR PILOT AND CREW? Brad Peri
WHERE ARE YOU SWIMMING FOR YOUR BLS TRAINING? Budapest National Swimming Pool - Margit island
SWIMMING FUN FACT: I was inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2016 and became the 18th person to ever complete Oceans Seven challenge in 2019.
ANYTHING ELSE? The open water swimming is my passion.
Read more about Attila on his Wikipedia page!
Barbara Cocci
NAME: Barbara Cocci
HOMETOWN: Milton, MA
BLS EXPERIENCE: Rookie
WHY BLS? I have been following the BLS for the past few years. I would chat with swimmers at Pleasure Bay about their swims. A friend planted a seed about me doing it this year. I thought " I enjoy a challenge and also like having a goal". Last August, I climbed Mount Washington with friends and we all worked together to be as prepared as possible. This August, Boston Light Swim: here I come!
WHO IS YOUR PILOT AND CREW? My pilot is Tom Hamilton and my crew is Maura Twomey and Jen Deleonardis.
WHERE ARE YOU SWIMMING FOR YOUR BLS TRAINING? To date, I have been swimming at Farm Pond and Walden Pond. I plan to add Pleasure Bay/M Street beaches beginning June 1.
SWIMMING FUN FACT: This will be my longest open water swim ever!
ANYTHING ELSE? Up until fifteen years ago, I was a poor and infrequent swimmer who knew nothing about open water. I have met so many encouraging people along the way, including some great trainers and coaches. I am enjoying the journey thus far and looking forward to the challenge.
Betsy Sandberg
NAME: Betsy Sandberg
HOMETOWN: Durham, NH
WHY BLS? I love the island tour nature of the swim.
WHO IS YOUR PILOT AND CREW? John Forgione (Pilot), Bob Fernald (Crew), Gail Pentheny (Crew)
WHERE ARE YOU SWIMMING FOR YOUR BLS TRAINING? NH Seacoast (fresh and salty options)
SWIMMING FUN FACT: Hysterical fact: I used to be a sprinter!
ANYTHING ELSE? I married my swim coach (heart emoji).
