SwimSquad Ambassador Team

Sandra Arthur

West Kelowna, BC Canada

I became a swim addict at the age of 9 when I joined a summer swim club and then later a winter club. You will find me in the summer in Lake Okanagan. Favourite beach is Gyro Beach where the outdoor swim clinics are held. See you out there!

Michelle Barnes

Australia

I started in a summer swim squad when I was 6, swam competitive until the age of 12. Got back in the pool at 28 when I started my first triathlon and did my first Ironman at 29. I went on to race in 17 Ironmans around the world (with multiple age group wins and podiums) including 5 World Championships in Kona where I placed 7th one year, top 20 every year. I started coaching triathlon after my 2nd year of racing since I was already working in the fitness industry. 15 years later I’m still racing and coaching (including running training camps around the world) and love helping others better themselves through swim bike and run !!! I also run my own massage business out of my home in Brisbane Australia!

At the moment swimming is my happy place and I have a 4 year old son who has the same love for the water.

The Okanagan is my favourite place to swim in the world and can’t wait to get out to some of the swim races this summer !

Aerin Bowers

Kelowna & Rossland, BC Canada

Aerin is a lifelong swimmer who splits her time between Kelowna and Rossland, BC. She’s travelled the world swimming long swims like the Lake Zurich 26 km, Portland Bridge Swim, Christina Lake, Skaha, and the Around Coronado Swim to name a few! Aerin is training to swim the 36 km English Channel in July, 2025. She’s participated in the ATLS events enough times to have replaced all her towels, and now speaks fluent Ogo Pogo. She blogs at openwaterlife.com.

Lana Collins

Burnaby, BC Canada

Passionate swimmer and advocate for adult learners, I’ve transformed my own fear of the water into a love for swimming. What started as a challenge became my happy place, and now, I’m all about helping others discover the joy and confidence that comes with swimming. Whether you’re dipping your toes in for the first time or conquering your swim goals, I’m here to guide, motivate, and cheer you on every stroke of the way. I know firsthand that the journey from fear to confidence isn’t easy, but it’s so worth it. There’s nothing like that moment when you realize you can do it—and I’m here to help make that happen for every swimmer I meet. Every goal is within reach, and I’m here to help you take the plunge, and enjoy the beautiful waters we swim in♥️

Phred Martin

Kelowna, BC Canada

I use to be scared of swimming and 20 years ago I decided to change that. Now what was once a fear has become my passion. I have participated in all of the ATLS events and I now coach newbies on how to swim open water. I have swam across the English Channel as part of a relay, and completed the Alcatraz Island Swim twice. In 2025 I will participate in the Christina Lake 36km swim, and in 2026 swim the English Channel as part of another relay team.

Nadia Pedley

New Westminster, BC Canada

Excited to dive into my second season of open water swimming! After a 25-year break from the pool, I’m back—competing in masters swim meets and taking on open water events. When I’m not swimming, you’ll find me paddleboarding, camping, and making the most of every outdoor adventure.

Gerry Sinclair

Abbotsford, BC Canada

As a 60+ (cough-cough) athlete (insert suitable eye-roll), I’m a huge fan of physical activity for all ages. I’m fortunate to live by “We do not stop exercising because we grow old, We grow old because we stop exercising”. I’ve been running most of my life but took up the Swim Bike Run thing about 7-8 years ago. Along with that came Open Water Swimming and everything that bringing, exercise, like minded, great people and an incredible sense of accomplishment. The more people say things like, “That’s dumb”, “I’d never do that”, “Are you crazy? Lake swimming in March?” I know I’m headed in the right direction. Hahaha I’m not the fastest or most efficient swimmer but the Open Water Swimming Community and the folks with Across the Lake Swim are always amazing. Good friends made and will be made. I’m proud to be a card carrying member of the Across the Lake Swimsquad and look forward to another GREAT Year!! Stay Active and Stay Healthy!!!

Amy Tucker

Kamloops & Oliver, BC Canada

Hello there. My name is Amy Tucker, and I am from Kamloops, British Columbia.

I am an enthusiastic swimmer and triathlete who has actively participated in open-water swimming since 2013. I am a dedicated member of the Kamloops Masters Swim Team, Kamloops Tri Club, Kamloops Senior Games (Zone 8), and Team Canada (age group).

You can find me swimming in various places, such as the Kamloops Tournament Capital Swimming Pool, Kamloops Swimming Pool, and open water. My favourite swimming lakes include Paul Lake, Lac Le Jeune, Hefley Lake, Lake Okanagan, Skaha Lake, and Christina Lake.

Besides swimming, I love cycling through beautiful landscapes, running on scenic trails, and teaching as a business instructor at Thompson Rivers University. I am passionate about promoting swimming and building communities throughout the province.

As an active volunteer, I always look forward to inspiring others to dive into the sport. My dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to inclusivity make me a proud SwimSquad Ambassador. I am excited to share my journey and encourage you to join me in making a splash in the swimming world!