"One Stroke at a Time" (Softback)
The printed edition of One Stroke at a Time. 34 real open-water swim stories, in full colour.
Featured in the World Open Water Swimming Association's Top 100 Open Water Swimming Books.
This book shares 34 real open-water swim stories, told in the swimmers' own voices, accompanied by full colour images and printed as a softback you can hold, shelve, and return to. Open-water swimmers from around the world share the moments that tested them and the quiet decisions that carried them through.
A companion for the days when training feels heavy, and a considered gift for any swimmer who respects quiet courage.
What you receive
- A printed softback copy of One Stroke at a Time
- 34 real open-water stories with full colour images
- Posted to your door within South Africa
What readers have to say
"Sue I truly wish everyone would buy your book 🙏 you are a hugely positive influence in my journey. I feel very lucky to know you personally" 🌊🐬 — Andrew Horne
"Fantastic collection of stories. Easy to read, and un-put-down-able — I didn't want it to end." — Jennifer van Oerle
"It motivated me to complete my first Robben Island crossing." — Ariella Levin
Compiled by Sue Ochse. Hard copies are limited. Posting is available within South Africa only, and postage is calculated separately at checkout.
The story behind the book
I compiled One Stroke at a Time during the Covid lockdowns, a strange and quiet stretch when swimming was off limits. The beaches were closed, the pools were shut, and I was missing the water more than I expected. With nowhere to swim, I turned to the next best thing: the stories of the swimmers I admire.
The interviews happened however they could. Some were done online, others in person with masks on. One by one, swimmers shared the moments that tested them and the quiet decisions that carried them through. What began as a way to stay connected to the sport during lockdown grew into a collection of 34 real open-water stories.
Among the 34 contributors are: Jean Craven of Madswimmer, Derrick Frazer of Big Bay Events, Sarah Ferguson, Ryan Stramrood, Kieron Palframan, Chad Ho, and Cameron Bellamy.
