At Ocean Swim Fiji, we are privileged to witness some of the most inspiring stories of dedication and achievement. One such story is that of Cameron Leslie, a Paralympic swimmer who graced our May 2024 event with his presence. Known for his incredible prowess in the pool, Cameron’s participation in our event was nothing short of extraordinary.
A Champion in Our Midst
Northland’s multiple Paralympic gold medal-winning swimmer, Cameron Leslie, is now heading to his fourth Paralympic Games in Paris 2024, where he’s leading the swim team. Based in Whangārei, Leslie achieved gold medals and set world records in Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016, but was unable to participate in Tokyo 2020 due to the imminent birth of his second child. He is thrilled to make a comeback to the Paralympics, competing alongside four other Para swimmers.
Cameron’s journey continued with stellar performances at the World Para Swimming Championships in 2022 and 2023, where he added multiple medals to his impressive collection. His resilience and determination are truly inspiring, especially as he juggles his roles as a proud father and husband, all while preparing for the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Taking up the sport at the age of 11, Cameron faced his share of challenges early on. Despite a tough debut at the 2006 IPC Swimming World Championships, he persevered, thanks to the encouragement of his parents. This decision set him on a path to greatness.
Relocating to Auckland, Cameron began training under coach Simon Mayne. Together, they shifted their focus to the Men’s 150m Individual Medley SM4, a decision that proved to be a game-changer. Cameron’s determination and hard work paid off when he clinched a gold medal and set a world record at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics. He repeated this phenomenal feat at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, solidifying his place as one of the best in his sport.
Despite his specialisation in shorter distances, Cameron took on the challenge of swimming all three 3km swims at Ocean Swim Fiji in May 2024. This was a significant shift from his usual 150m events, showcasing his versatility and endurance. His participation not only highlighted his athletic ability but also his passion for new experiences and challenges. It was an incredible experience for our swimmers to swim alongside such a legend. It’s not every day you get to swim beside an Olympian, and it made the event even more special.
Join Us for the Ultimate Swimcation
Cameron Leslie’s story is a testament to the spirit of Ocean Swim Fiji, embracing challenges, celebrating achievements, and creating unforgettable memories. We invite you to be a part of this incredible journey at our May 2025 event.
- Dates: 19 – 23 May 2025
- Experience: 5 Days, 3 Swims, 0 Worries
Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or someone looking for a unique adventure, Ocean Swim Fiji offers an unparalleled experience. Our event promises to be filled with fun, relaxation, and the camaraderie of fellow swimming enthusiasts.
Secure your spot now and look forward to an unforgettable swimcation in paradise. See you in May 2025!
