
Captain Webb: The Channel Conqueror
From SwimOut by SwimOut Podcast
December 4, 2025 · 39 min · Season 6 · Episode 8
About this episode
This episode pays tribute to Captain Matthew Webb, the first person to swim the English Channel, recounting his challenges and determination.
This special edition of the SwimOut podcast pays tribute to Captain Matthew Webb who, in 1875, made history as the first person to swim the English Channel. Our dramatisation brings his story to life: A village lad who ran away to sea, saw the world and was inspired to make the impossible happen. The story recounts the many challenges he had to overcome - from shifting tides to jellyfish. It details what kept him going during his gruelling feat of valour, from beef tea to brandy and more importantly, his friends and family onboard the support vessel. His motto “ Nothing great is easy” is testament to his grit, endurance and bravado. Join us on this heroic swim to France, with Captain Webb, The Channel Conqueror. Find out more: @swimoutpodcast or swimout.net
People in this episode
Host: SwimOut Podcast
Topics covered
- swimming
- English Channel
- historical figure
- endurance
- challenges
- heroism
Keywords
- Captain Matthew Webb
- English Channel
- swimming history
- endurance swimming
- heroic feats
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