By Diana Nyad’s remarkable long-distance swim from Cuba to Florida, portrayed in the Netflix biopic “Nyad,” thrusts her story back into the limelight. Known for becoming the first person to conquer the 110-mile journey without a shark cage at the age of 64 on September 2, 2013, Nyad’s accomplishment remains iconic despite controversies surrounding it.
Life After the Swim
Since her historic crossing, Nyad has remained active in various endeavors. She’s penned op-eds for esteemed publications like The New York Times and the Washington Post. Additionally, Nyad has been a vocal advocate for survivors of abuse, sharing her own experiences, including allegations of sexual abuse by her swim coach when she was 14.
EverWalk Initiative
In collaboration with Bonnie Stoll, her coach and close friend, Nyad co-founded EverWalk, a national walking initiative launched in 2016. Beyond their shared advocacy, Nyad and Stoll maintain a strong bond, traveling together and even participating in tennis tournaments.
Impact Beyond Swimming
Nyad’s memoir, “Find a Way,” published in 2015, serves as the inspiration behind the Netflix biopic. Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, “Nyad” features Annette Bening portraying Nyad and Jodie Foster as Stoll. The film has garnered attention during awards season, with both Bening and Foster receiving nominations for their performances.
Support for the Biopic
Throughout the awards circuit, Nyad has shown unwavering support for “Nyad,” attending screenings alongside the cast and participating in events like TheWrap’s Power Women Summit. Her presence underscores the significance of her journey and the impact it continues to have on audiences worldwide.
