Maya Merhige is more than just your average Berkeley High student: While her friends may spend their weekends sleeping in, playing video games, or reading a book, Maya can be found in the ocean, training for yet another marathon swim or traveling the world to break another record. Maya’s accomplishments are inspirational and remarkable:
• 2021 (14 years old) – Maya broke the record as the youngest woman in history to successfully swim the 20-mile Catalina Channel, finishing in 10 hours and 48 minutes.
• 2023 (15 years old) – Maya became one of the youngest swimmers to successfully complete the 28.5-mile 20 Bridges swim around Manhattan, which took her 8 hours and 43 minutes.
• 2024 (16 years old): Maya swam the English Channel in 11 hours and 39 minutes making her one of the youngest in history to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.
“I swim for each and every single person that has ever been touched by cancer”
Maya’s passion for open water swimming goes beyond personal triumphs; she has dedicated her efforts to raising fund for two vital programs at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and has raised more than $100K to fight pediatric cancer. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Maya’s charities.
Join us for the March “801nce/month” event, a presentation you won’t forget. Learn about the personal struggles Maya has had to overcome and how she pushes herself to keep going when the odds are stacked against her. Most importantly, find out what swim Maya plans to conquer next.
801nce/Month (“8-0-Once a Month”) Events are interesting, educational and engaging new programs hosted by the Piedmont Recreation Department. Each month, PRD offers a unique program at 801 Magnolia Avenue designed for adults to learn something new, enjoy an evening out, or perhaps challenge themselves! “Chasing Channels” is open to all ages. Sign up HERE.