GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — An ultra swimmer said he again will try to cross Lake Michigan, from Michigan to Wisconsin, just a few weeks after trouble with a GPS device forced him to give up after 60 miles (96 kilometers).
Jim Dreyer said he would set off early Monday evening in Grand Haven. He said the journey to Milwaukee would cover at least 80 miles (128 kilometers) in the water and last 72 hours or more.
Dreyer, 61, will also be towing a small inflatable boat with supplies.
“Sorry for the last-minute notice, but chaos is often part of this open water swimming game,” he said on Facebook while also posting “Here I Go Again,” a 1987 power ballad video by Whitesnake.
His progress can be tracked online.
Dreyer, whose calls himself The Shark, crossed Lake Michigan in 1998, starting in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, and finishing in Ludington, Michigan. But three attempts to do it again have been unsuccessful since 2023.
His last effort began on Aug. 6. The next day, he paused to get fresh AA batteries to keep a GPS device working. But during the process, Dreyer said he somehow lost the bag in the lake.
He had only a compass and nature to help him try to keep moving west. But Dreyer ended up swimming north instead, burning precious time and adding more miles as risky weather approached. A support crew pulled him out of Lake Michigan on Aug. 8.
“What a blow!” Dreyer said at the time.
In recent news, a daring swimmer known as “The Shark” made headlines for attempting to cross Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. The swimmer, whose real identity remains unknown, set out on this ambitious journey in an effort to raise awareness for water conservation and environmental protection.
Lake Michigan, with its vast expanse of water stretching over 22,400 square miles, presents a formidable challenge for even the most experienced swimmers. The Shark’s attempt to conquer this great body of water captured the attention of many, as people followed his progress with bated breath.
The swimmer embarked on his journey from the shores of Chicago, Illinois, with the goal of reaching the opposite shore in Michigan. However, just a few hours into his swim, The Shark encountered rough waters and strong currents that proved to be too much for him to handle. Despite his best efforts, he was forced to abandon his mission and was rescued by a passing boat.
While The Shark’s attempt to cross Lake Michigan may have ended in disappointment, his courage and determination have not gone unnoticed. His feat serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with tackling such a monumental task, and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected when venturing into the unknown.
Moreover, The Shark’s decision to undertake this swim in support of water conservation highlights the urgent need to protect our natural resources. With climate change and pollution threatening the health of our lakes and oceans, it is crucial that we take action to preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.
As The Shark reflects on his journey and plans his next adventure, he leaves behind a message of inspiration for all who dare to dream big and push the boundaries of what is possible. While his attempt to cross Lake Michigan may have fallen short, his spirit of adventure and commitment to making a difference will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
In conclusion, The Shark’s attempted crossing of Lake Michigan serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and rewards that come with pushing oneself to the limit. His journey may have ended prematurely, but his message of conservation and environmental protection will live on, inspiring others to take action and make a positive impact on the world around them.
