Port Chester Swimmer Completes English Channel Crossing

LARCHMONT, NY (October 5, 2026) — Drew Nemetz, a distance swimmer from Port Chester, successfully completed a solo crossing of the English Channel, stepping onto the beach at Cap Blanc-Nez, France, 14 hours and 16 minutes after starting near Samphire Hoe, England, on Saturday afternoon local time.

Nemetz, 44, became the 92nd swimmer this year to achieve this feat, according to the Channel Swimming Association, joining fewer than 2,200 individuals who have done so since 1875. Nemetz, co-owner of Alpen Pantry in Old Greenwich, CT, trained extensively in Long Island Sound and used his swim to raise awareness about water quality challenges, collecting over $20,000 for Save the Sound, a nonprofit based in Larchmont, NY.

“Accomplishing this swim was very meaningful for many reasons. I enjoyed the challenge, believe it or not, and this lovely area of the world,” said Nemetz. “The conditions were difficult, but my crew and friends helped me get through it.”

Peter Linderoth, director of healthy waters and lands for Save the Sound, was part of Nemetz’s support team. “It was amazing to watch Drew power through everything he encountered during a grueling crossing,” said Linderoth. “We are grateful for Drew’s support of Save the Sound and his committed advocacy.”

Nemetz and Linderoth will discuss his accomplishment and water quality in Long Island Sound in a webinar on Nov. 4.

This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.

Have information about this story? Email robertcox@talkofthesound (preferred) or contact via WhatsApp: +353 089 972 0669.