Sept. 2, 2013 marked a triumphant day for the legendary Diana Nyad, having accomplished what was deemed impossible of swimming from Cuba to Florida without using a shark cage. But, that day wasn’t only significant for Nyad; it was a memorable day for people all over the world, as it made us realize that we too could see our dreams come to life if we work hard enough at it. With the recent release of the Netflix film, Nyad, based on Diana Nyad’s remarkable feat, new generations have been able to hear and know about this story. But, before this film even released on the streaming platform, Diana Nyad’s incredible swimming accomplishment was something that made major headlines and TV news exactly a decade ago.
110 miles down and more than 53 hours in the water, Nyad made history with her awe-inspiring achievement. She is a living, breathing example of the phrase, “never give up,” having succeeded at her goal at 64 years old on her fifth attempt of this grueling undertaking. No matter what kind of obstacles were presented to her—from dangerous box jellyfish to the Gulf Stream that could have pushed her off course—Nyad persevered and let nothing stop her. Needless to say, Nyad is a true wonder and someone to admire.
Of course, a big part in making this impossible…possible was the help and support of her trainer, Bonnie Stoll. As we see in the film, Nyad and Stoll’s friendship is a key element of the story, both on-screen and in real life. It goes without saying that without each other, none of this would have happened.
As award season is swiftly approaching us, there is no doubt that Nyad should be rightfully recognized. Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll have both won awards in the eyes and hearts of fans all across the globe as two people who defied all odds. They show the true power of women in every aspect of life—from sports to friendship and beyond.
I had the great honor of interviewing the incomparable Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit all about what it was like for them to see their story told in Nyad, what advice they would give to their younger self and so much more only in our VIPAccessEXCLUSIVE interview. Nyad and Stoll even talked about what they think the key to friendship is—hear what they had to say in our VIPAccessEXCLUSIVE interview below.
Check out my VIPAccessEXCLUSIVE interview with the extraordinary Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit below!
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