In Malta, a picturesque island nation known for its serene waters and rich history, swimming enthusiasts regularly take on daunting challenges in the Mediterranean. Recently, an extraordinary accomplishment was made by an 11-year-old boy who became the youngest person in Malta’s history to complete a round-trip swim between Malta and Gozo.
This young hero is Zac Bugeja. His passion for swimming can be traced back to when he was just eight years old. In 2021, Zac successfully completed a 2.3 km swim from Gerbulin to Slugs Bay, taking 1 hour and 28 seconds. The following year, he made waves again, swimming 6 km from Filfa to Malta in 2 hours and 24 minutes, setting a national record as the youngest swimmer to achieve such a feat.
Now at age 11, Zac, encouraged by his coach Neil Agius, set his sights on a new challenge: the 11 km round-trip swim from Malta to Gozo and back. Coach Agius, an experienced open-water swimmer, is himself training for a grueling swim around Malta, Gozo, and Comino.
In preparation for this massive challenge, Zac trained diligently, swimming six times a week. His training regime included maintaining a steady pace, swimming in a straight line in open water, and taking brief breaks for nutrition. He was joined in training by 18-year-old Sabrina Pace, another passionate swimmer, and together they encouraged each other to endure the tough sessions.
Last Saturday, Zac and Sabrina set out on their daring adventure at 6:30 a.m., cheered on by friends and family. The journey was far from easy. Midway through, Zac began to feel intense shoulder pain and doubted whether he could finish. However, with encouragement from his coach and loved ones, Zac persevered and pushed forward toward Gozo. Upon reaching the island and hearing the cheers of his supporters, Zac’s spirits soared, giving him the energy to complete the return swim.
After 4 hours and 23 minutes, Zac completed the round-trip, making history as Malta’s youngest swimmer to achieve this remarkable feat. “I’m so happy I was able to complete the challenge,” Zac said with excitement. “As my parents always say, hard work pays off.”
Coach Agius was full of praise for Zac’s performance: “Zac is an incredibly brave and focused young boy. His achievement makes us all proud. I hope his story inspires more young people to take up swimming and push their limits.”
Zac’s accomplishment has captured the attention of many in Malta, with some experts noting that his feat brings fresh energy to the island’s swimming scene. His determination and success have already inspired others, and many believe that more young swimmers will follow in his footsteps, bringing even more recognition to Malta’s waters.
Next time you take a ferry to Gozo, take a moment to appreciate just how far Zac swam!
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