Distance: 23.5 km

Time: 08:05:23

Start (UCT +02:00):May,11, 2026, 06:04 am

Start Location: Makanjila, Liwewe BVC
13°41'44.5560"S 34°50'53.1240"E

Finish Location: Senga Bay,
13°43’05.98”S 34°37’38.85”E

Average Water Temperature: ≈28°C

Average Air Temperature: ≈28°C

Highest Wind:13 km/h North

Lowest wind:   0km/h

Category: Unassisted Marathon Swim (skins)

Rules: Traditional Marathon Swimming Rules & Regulations

Honours: Documented Fastest Female

Planned feed: High Carb Raspberry Skratch – 200g carb in 8oz water every 30-45 minutesZofran/Bonine as needed for nausea (probably won’t take) 

Reason for taking on a Lake Malawi attempt
A few years ago, I was told about the Stillwater 8 list of swims. It became a goal of mine to work towards completing this list. I prefer fresh water to salt water, so this list was perfect. It also contained some amazing adventure swims around the world – one of which being Lake Malawi. An opportunity to try Lake Malawi this year became available and I took it! I’m very excited for this new adventure.

What did you incorporate / how did you prepare for your Lake Malawi Swim?
With the water temperature of outdoor lakes in MI, USA being so cold before May, most of my training has been in the pool. I made sure to appropriately build my yardage each week per my usual training plan and mix in a 10km or longer swim every week or two. I was at peak yardage for about a month or two, with a week and a half of taper before travelling.

How were you feeling about the swim?
I’m feeling excited and a bit nervous. But it’s going to be great and epic! 

How did the swim go, other than being successful. What were the highs and lows?
The swim was amazing. The conditions were lovely, except maybe the current at the end. Camping the night before was beautiful!

Did the support boats work for you?
Yes

Is there anything in hindsight, you would have changed or introduced within training regime?

I think I need to modify my fuelling more for warm conditions.

Anything that really sticks out in your mind relating to the swim itself?
All parts were incredible.

Would you recommend this swim to others and who would you recommend it for?
Yes, absolutely. Anyone who wants a different type of adventure and challenge.

How was your overall stay been in Malawi?
My overall stay has been wonderful. Chembe is great and I have been able to do tours and activities to see more of Cape Maclear and Malawi. 

GPX files on request

DOWNLOAD DOCUMENTS (click on images)

Maggie kept us updated on her logistics from leaving the US to arriving in Malawi. We discussed any dietary requirements she might have beforehand to make sure we were prepared.

On arrival, Maggie was met by Charles, our trusted transfer driver, who made sure she could sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights. In the lead-up, she asked all the right questions and seemed happy with the arrangements. She travelled to Malawi alone but remained calm and in good spirits, clearly looking forward to the swim. She was focused and well-organized throughout.

On the morning of the swim, conditions were good and Maggie was eager to get started. She asked not to be told the distance swum or the distance remaining.

We’d agreed she would let us know if she wanted to adjust her feeding times. We shifted from 30 minutes to 40 minutes, then back to 30, due to the heat and to avoid dehydration.

Closer to the end, Maggie asked if we were close to the record. We didn’t give a yes or no, but offered encouragement instead.

As always, the currents picked up in the final stretch and slowed her slightly. Even so, she kept pushing and swam hard right to the finish. 

As an observer, I confirm that I witnessed the entirety of Maggie Regan’s swim From Makanjila to Senga Bay. And can vouch that it was conducted in accordance with the rules of WOWSA (World Open Water Swimming Association) for unassisted marathon swimming. All timing logs and tracker positions were accurate and recorded in real-time throughout the event.

Walter Anthony John Muggleton
Open Water Africa
May 11, 2026

Walter Anthony John Muggleton is the official Observer of the swim. Bringing a wealth of experience to the role.

With 20-year experience of Lake Malawi. Being Chairman and Safety Officer & Rescue Co-ordinator of the Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon.

Pilot & Logistics for the Lake Malawi Marathon swims since 2010. Officially observing documented swim since 2023 with Open Water Africa.

Other qualifications:

CPR/AED/First Aid
History of military first aid
Managing director of Chevron, responsible for safety, health and environment  

Lake Malawi swims use two 5.4-meter Thundercat inflatable boats, each powered by a Yamaha 50hp outboard.

The boats were purchased and stationed locally so they can be properly maintained and kept ready for operation. Their design allows easy communication with swimmers and quick access for rescue if needed.

Each boat can carry up to 5 people. Because they sit low in the water, they handle high winds well and remain stable and easy to operate when conditions turn rough.

Aubrey de Kerk is not only the host of Eagle’s Nest, Chembe, but also has a genuine passion for anything on the water. He’s sailed numerous routes, including Cape Town to St Helena Island on more than one occasion.

Working closely with Walter, he helps coordinate expeditions on Lake Malawi and the Zambezi for global reporters and adventurers who want to explore these African waters safely, drawing on their extensive local knowledge and experience.

Support Crew: Gideon Duncan & Patrick Douglas

From left to right: Gideon Duncan, Walter Muggleton, Maggie Regan, Aubrey de Klerk, Patrick Douglas