Lewis Pugh Begins First 62-Mile Swim Around Martha’s Vineyard to Raise Shark Awareness

Endurance swimmer Lewis Pugh is undertaking a 62-mile swim around Martha's Vineyard to raise awareness about shark conservation, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the movie "Jaws," which he says unfairly portrayed sharks as villains. The swim, which will take about 12 days in cold 47-degree water during the start of white shark migration season, aims to change public perception of sharks and highlight their at-risk status. Pugh, known for extreme swims worldwide, will wear only trunks, a cap, and goggles, emphasizing the physical and mental challenge of the endeavor. Beginning shortly after the first white shark sighting off Nantucket, Pugh plans to educate the public about sharks throughout his journey and advocate for their protection. He sees sharks as the most vilified predators and wants his message to reach other countries facing declining shark populations. This effort follows previous swims by Pugh focused on environmental awareness, including the Hudson River and under Antarctic ice.