Name:  Elizabeth Schlicher 

Event: Oceania Gas Five Islands 

Swim Challenge 

Dates: 11-14 May

Age: 34

State / Country:  California, USA

Occupation: Elementary School 

Counsellor 

List your PBs and Races you have competed in the last three years.

Rottnest Channel 2015 (20kms), Several 10k in Spain 2014, 15k Clean Half in Hong Kong, Maui Channel 2010.

Personal Best 3km, 43mins

Best thing about Open Water Swimming

There are so many things I love about Open Water Swimming!  I love that every swim is a adventure as you never know what the ocean has in store for you.  I love that open water swimming tests my limits.  But, most of all, the absolute best part is all the incredible people I am now lucky to call my friends because of swimming.  The Open Water Swimming community is amazing! 

Why the Five Islands:

Two of my favourite things are swimming and traveling! I l love finding races in new locations around the world. Each of the swims during the Five Island event look very unique (some crossings, some costal).  Also, I love the opportunity to get in 5 swims in 4 days.  Hopefully, it will be my ‘warm-up’ to do the Upolu-Savai’i crossing next year! 

Best swimming experience:

All of my swims have been great experiences!  My Maui Channel swim in 2010 was special because it was my first marathon swim and I was the first female to ever win the overall solo race. 

That race taught me a lot about training, race nutrition, and the importance of your crew.  My Rottnest Channel swim in 2015 was special because it is my longest and most challenging swim.  

I had a really rough start on that swim and my anxiety took over. I had a really hard time finding my rhythm and staying positive during the first 1-2k.  

With motivation from my crew and a determined attitude I was able to get my mind calm which is so important for open water swimming.  

Once I was able to overcome the mental obstacles, I swam strong to a 4th place finish.  Also, I love celebrating swims with organizers, crew, and fellow swimmers after the event!  The camaraderie of the swimming community is so special. 

Who are you traveling with? 

My boyfriend Brian Tabor will be traveling with me.  He is a huge support to me during all my swims.  From throwing me my feeding water bottles to encouraging me during rough parts of swims, I couldn’t do it without him.  We are excited to explore Samoa for a few extra days before and after the swims!

What do you hope to experience in 

Samoa?

I hope to have some fun and fast swims! I hope to make some lifelong swim friends as we share our passion for swimming in what looks like one of the most beautiful places in the world! I also wouldn’t mind seeing a turtle and other beautiful wildlife. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the Samoan culture.