SwimSquad Ambassador Team

Sandra Arthur

West Kelowna, BC, Canada

I swam competitively from age 9-19, took a long break and I’ve been back at it for about 17 years now. I recently coached Masters Swimming in Abbotsford for 20 years and coached for the Hyack Swim Club back in the 80’s. I plan on swimming for life! And moving to the Okanagan really fits into my lifestyle with the lake right there and the awesome swims the Across The Lake Swim program offers. In the summer you will likely find me training in the lake in Peachland.

Kendra Auringer

Victoria, BC, Canada

I basically grew up in a pool. I was a competitive swimmer and lifeguard growing up, then traded lane lines for open roads as a triathlete. Like many people, work, family, and life got busy—but the pull of the water never really left.

Eventually, I found my way back to the pool, and it felt like coming home. Between juggling a busy career and family life, swimming has become my reset button, my quiet time, and the one place that’s just for me. Early mornings, long sets, and that feeling of touching the wall completely spent—it never gets old.

Swimming has taught me discipline, resilience, and how powerful consistency can be, especially when time is limited. I love being part of a community that supports each other, celebrates progress, and shows up—even on the hard days.

Aerin Bowers

Vancouver , BC, Canada

English Channel swimmer, lake swimmer, friend to all swimmers – Aerin combines an intrepid passion for achieving her dreams with a genuine desire to support new swimmers in their open water journeys.

Tatiana Clarke

Aldergrove, BC, Canada

I have been swimming my whole life. I did competitive swimming since I was 12 years old and I did synchronize swimming from 6 years old to 14 years old. I was a lifeguard for 10 years and taught swimming lessons for 15 years.

Debbie Collingwood

Sechelt, BC, Canada

I am super excited to return as a SwimSquad Ambassador! I’ve been semi-retired since 2023 after becoming the 6th Canadian to earn the Triple Crown of open water swimming, but I am working my way out of retirement. When not swimming I can be found taking part in my other hobby (and working my way INTO retirement) as a Special Ed teacher on BC’s beautiful Sunshine Coast.

Lana Collins

Burnaby, BC, Canada

I am an open water swim coach for the Tri-Cities Swim Pod and Tri-Cities Triathlon, drawn not to lanes or lines, but to wide water and moving horizons. I love long swims where rhythm matters more than speed, where breath and body settle, and where sunbeams scatter across the surface like quiet encouragement.

Open water is honest. It asks for presence, patience, and respect. It teaches you to move forward even when there’s chop in your face, when sighting feels uncertain, and when comfort drifts just out of reach. I coach athletes to trust their stroke, stay calm in the unknown, and find strength in steady forward motion.

My focus is on flow, efficiency, and confidence—swimming straight when nothing is straight, staying relaxed when conditions change, and learning to work with the water instead of fighting it. Speed comes later. Calm comes first.

I believe open water should feel expansive, grounding, and quietly powerful. It’s where endurance becomes meditative, effort becomes purposeful, and every stroke earns its place.

Train with intention. Breathe with the rhythm of the water. Follow the light. Then emerge tired, strong, and ready to eat absolutely everything. 🌊🏊‍♀️

Sarah Freeman

Canmore, AB, Canada

Sarah Freeman is an open-water and pool swimmer, coach, and guides women in the water and beyond.

Sarah also leads the Fearless Warrior Swim Squad, an inclusive, all-gender training group that has been running for over 15 years. The squad is a space to challenge yourself, be a part of a community, and feel supported and connected.

This summer, Sarah will be swimming 4.5–5 km events with Across the Lake Swims, continuing to push herself while inspiring women to trust their abilities, embrace the water, and dream big.

Outside of swimming, Sarah is the Executive Director of the Bow Valley Chamber of Commerce and a volunteer board member with YWCA Banff. She also leads Swim It Forward, supporting young women who have faced adversity and are ready to chase their swimming dreams.

Through swimming, Sarah creates space for women to grow in confidence, connection, and community. She swims with intention and quiet determination, whether in a pool or a lake, pursuing her dream to compete in an ice swimming event in Europe in 2027, or quietly dreaming of completing a 19 km open-water swim.

David Hales

Kelowna, BC, Canada

I have had the good fortune to participate in our Okanagan ‘Across the Lake Swims’ for over 20 years. In my younger years I ran triathlons and marathons but it is these swims now that keep me going. It’s not about fast times anymore it’s about enjoying my lake training May thru Sept, and of course the event participation and camaraderie.

Jennifer James

West Kelowna , BC, Canada

I’m a mom of four, studio gym owner, and lifelong lover of movement. Fitness isn’t just what I do – it’s how I live. From swimming, running, and triathlon to cross-country skiing and strength training, I believe in building strong, capable bodies for real life – and having fun in every challenge or adventure.

Swimming has always been my anchor. There is something therapeutic about being off your feet and bathing your mind in the silence under the water. This year marks my 25th swim across Okanagan Lake, a journey that reflects my belief in consistency and finding a form of exercise and a community within it that you love .

Brooke Jesus

Oliver, BC, Canada

Brooke Jesus is an endurance athlete, triathlete, and ultra-runner with a deep love for open water swimming. Based in the Okanagan, she’s raced everywhere from local lakes to international World Triathlon events, and thrives in challenging, unpredictable conditions, especially when the water gets a little choppy.

When she’s not training or racing, Brooke coaches runners and endurance athletes through her business Paced by Brooke, leads community run groups, and is passionate about helping people build confidence through movement. She believes open water swimming is as much about mindset as it is fitness, and loves helping athletes feel calm, capable, and strong in the water.

As an Across the Lake Swim Ambassador, Brooke is excited to support swimmers of all levels, share training tips, and celebrate the incredible community that makes this event so special.

Sharon Jones

West Kelowna, BC, Canada

Living in the Okanagan for over 14 years has gotten me into lake swimming. I was an avid pool swimmer for 50 years, but nothing compares to a swim in the beautiful Okanagan Lake. I also have a passion for cycling/spin classes and love to hike with my husband and dogs on our many trails in West Kelowna. I have been retired for over 2 years now which has given me the opportunity to travel abroad and within Canada. I like to dive into cultural experiences while in different countries to experience other traditions, like trying fermented seal in Iceland (do not recommend!), doing the walk of shame (Game of Thrones) in Dubrovnik Crotia and traditional tea ceremony in Japan.

Nicole Kraft

Kelowna , BC, Canada

Declared a ‘water baby’ at 6 months old, Nicole has been swimming competitively since 12, then with the Varsity swim team at Brock University, and with Masters clubs in Ontario and BC since. In the pool, backstroke in the stroke of choice, and the H20 centre is a cherished place.

However the fun really began when Nicole moved to Kelowna and participated in her 1st ever open water event – the ATLS 2011. She was actually (just a little!) scared beforehand, but after running up that beach the first time – she was hooked! And now has a lifelong goal to complete the swim as many times as possible.

She still very much remembers being intimidated before the first swim, so if you feel nervous, want advice and guidance – whether practical or philosophical – well Nicole is happy as a clam to share her experiences with you and help you feel confident and enjoy your swim.

Corrina Kudla

Kelowna, BC, Canada

Hi, I’m Corrina! This is my fifth year doing the Across the Lake Swim in Kelowna and I couldn’t be more excited. One of the things I love most about the Okanagan is the landscape and the outdoor recreation, and the lake really epitomizes that. I started off challenging myself to something I wasn’t sure I could do, and over the years I’ve grown to love open water swimming and pushing for faster times. Hoping (and training) for my best swim yet this year!

Jennifer Leach Trask aka Jennifer Grant

Kelowna, BC, CA

I am very honoured to have been selected as a Swim Squad Ambassador for the Across the Lake Swim 2026. This year will be my 29th  Across the Lake Swim, and I have done all of the Across the Lake Swim events for many years. For all these years, I have found each Across the Lake  Swim to be safe, exciting, fun, and highly rewarding.

Watching the hundreds of swimmers make their dreams come true by participating in the Across the Lake Swims is a genuinely inspiring experience. I am excited for all of you.

I will see you at the clinics and at the start line.
Keep on Swimming!

Phred Martin

Vernon, BC, CA

I use to be scared of swimming. So 20 years ago I decided to face my greatest fear. Now swimming is my passion. I have finished the English Channel as a relay and I will do it again in 2026. I have also finished the Alkatraz swim twice and in 2025 finished the 33.3 km Ultra Swim in Montenegro. Coaching at the ATLS swim clinics is my favourite part of summer. I remember training for my first Across The Lake Swim. I was so nervous. Now I relish those nerves. See you in the open water

Sage May

Kaleden, BC, Canada

Hello! My name is Sage and I’ve been involved in swimming since I was 7 years old, as both a swimmer and a coach. The water is my happy place, whether the pool, lake or ocean. I’m very excited to be part of the 2026 SwimSquad Ambassador team.

Pam Montoya

Vancouver, BC, Canada

For me, swimming has always been my safe place. There is something so healing about the water, and I’ve made it my mission to help others find that same connection.

I’m a firm believer in the “you vs. you” mentality. It isn’t about being the fastest person in the lane next to you; it’s about showing up for yourself, pushing your own limits, and finding joy in the progress.

Beyond the laps, my heart is in empowering women to feel truly at home in a swimsuit. We all deserve to move our bodies with confidence and celebrate what they can do. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to keep building a community that values strength, self-love, and a little healthy competition.

Lori Nelson

Chilliwack, BC, Canada

In 2015, I had weight loss surgery. At my highest weight (284 lbs), I was inactive and suffered from social anxiety. 10 years on, I’ve lost almost 135 lbs (with a bit more to go). As I continue my weight loss journey, I’ve embraced the fulfilling life of an athlete.

I started out as a runner, peaking at the half marathon distance (for now). Unfortunately, a hip replacement and knee injuries required a minor reset.

In 2019, I took up triathlon. One of my fellow Abby Tri Club members introduced me to the Across the Lake Kelowna OWS. I was blown away at how popular the event was! So many people of different ages, sizes, and abilities made me feel I could be a part of this amazing swim. After crossing the finish line at that first swim, I was hooked.

For the past few years, I’ve competed many of the ATL short distance swims. This year, I going to trying my luck with middle distance swims. I’m not fastest or most competitive swimmer in the pack, but I still have lots of fun.

Come join me. I look forward to meeting you.

Nadia Pedley

North Vancouver, BC, Canada

From laps at Sasamat and Buntzen Lake to paddleboarding and weekend camping trips, Nadia loves being on the water and chasing adventure. She’s a dedicated masters swimmer and enjoys the challenge and camaraderie of open water swimming

Dustin Quigley

Kelowna, BC, Canada

As an avid local triathlete, you’ll probably find me on my bike, in my runners or in the water around the Okanagan when I’m not raising my 2 amazing kids ( who have also done the Kelowna Across the Lake swim twice! )

Coming off a handful of years with a focus on competing on the cycling scene, it’s time for me to return to my first love and make a SPLASH again at some of our local races!

I also spend some time race directing and helping out at other events when I can.

I’ve also been told on team camps that I can grill a mean steak!

Looking forward to the 2026 Calendar!

Gerry Sinclair

Abbotsford, BC, Canada

Hi All!!! My name is Gerry Sinclair and I’m from Abbotsford, BC via Saskatchewan in 2006.

I’ve been a swimmer my entire life, water polo in my younger years, then pool/lake swimming. I started racing Triathlons 9 years ago and fell in love with Open Water Swimming.

My first leap into Open Water Swimming was in Okanagan Lake. From there Albert Dyck, Rolley, Sasamat, Whonnock, and Cultus Lake with a short dip into the ocean in the Kits Challenge and Second Beach. During the off season, Winter, I’m out pool swimming in Abbotsford, Mission with my favorite being the outdoor pool in Aldergrove.

I have been coaching the Abbotsford Special Olympic Softball Team since 2018 and I am currently a Triathlon Provincial Technical Official with TriBC & Triathlon Canada.

I am currently an Employment Outreach Worker in the Lower Mainland/Fraser Valley.

I have made great friends swimming and I look forward to continue meeting new people and enjoying the company of new and old, Open Water Swimmers everywhere.

I am looking forward to all the new swims this year that will be part of Across the Lake Swim, especially the Starlight Swim on July 29 in Kelowna.

Linda Stanley Wilson

Surrey, BC, Canada

Linda is thrilled to join the ATLS SwimSquad Ambassador team. She looks forward to swimming across numerous lakes this year in her signature style—backstroke! She also enjoys coaching new open water swimmers and capturing their successes with her trusty Nikon. Linda is an old-timey open-water swimmer originally from San Francisco, who swam her first crossings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Lake Tahoe almost 50 years ago. She regularly returns to the Bay for memorable frolics with her friends, but now trains in the beautiful lakes across British Columbia. She joined up with the Buntzen Burners last summer and catches a few laps around Sasamat when the bears aren’t too active. In the pool, she swims with White Rock Wave, but heads to the open water as soon as she can coax someone else to join her (always swim with a buddy!).

Carol Tapsay

Eagle Bay, BC, Canada

I recently retired to Eagle Bay on the Shuswap after more than 35 years of coming to the lake seasonally. I’ve always loved the water and spent my summers boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Swimming, however, was mostly limited to short trips back and forth to the moored boat, not exactly athletic.

That changed last June when a neighbour mentioned the 2.5 km Across the Lake Swim at Copper Island. With equal parts curiosity and optimism, myself and four others trained three times a week from our local beach. We were a mixed group with varying abilities, but the camaraderie, encouragement, and shared commitment were powerful motivators.

After two months of training, I still couldn’t swim the full distance freestyle or breaststroke — but I did the swim anyway. Using a combination of side and backstroke, I completed the entire 2.5 km, finishing last at 2.5 hours… and finishing proud. I was hooked.

Now I’m training to improve my time by swimming in the lake until last October and at the pool once or twice a week this winter. Starting long-distance open water swimming at 64 has been challenging, joyful, and rewarding. It’s never too late to try something new!