Collingwood Swimmer Cindy Guyon Conquers Ice Mile in Butterfly, a Canadian First
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A Collingwood, Ontario resident has achieved a remarkable feat of endurance and skill, becoming the first Canadian to complete a ratified ice mile in the butterfly stroke. Cindy Guyon’s accomplishment, officially recognized by the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA), underscores her dedication to both personal challenge and a unique swimming style.
After a rigorous ratification process, Guyon was confirmed as the 13th ice miler in Canada and the 635th globally. The successful swim took place on April 19, 2025, following months of preparation and several postponed attempts due to challenging conditions.
A Personal Quest and a Love for Butterfly
Guyon’s motivation stemmed from a desire to push her limits and celebrate her passion for the butterfly stroke. “Anything for the story and everything for the adventure,” reflects her philosophy, adding, “when was the last time you did something for the first time?” This mindset propelled her to undertake an exceptionally difficult challenge within the growing sport of ice swimming.
Her ambition was further solidified after consulting with Pauline Barker, a highly decorated ice swimmer from Plymouth, England, and the first to complete an IISA-ratified ice mile in butterfly. It was determined that Guyon was likely the third person worldwide to join the exclusive Ice Mile Fly Club, and the very first in Canada.
The Road to Centennial Beach
The journey to completing the ice mile was far from straightforward. The team faced numerous setbacks, including six canceled attempt dates due to extreme temperatures and an unexpected ice storm that disrupted training and logistics. Initial plans to swim at Northwinds Beach, near Guyon’s home, were thwarted by uncooperative water temperatures.
The team embarked on a search for colder waters, first checking Thornbury (7-8°C) and then Peasemarsh (6-7°C). Ultimately, the ideal conditions were found at Centennial Beach in Barrie, approximately one hour away, where the water temperature registered a frigid 4°C under overcast skies and a 10°C breeze.
A Team Effort in Extreme Conditions
Guyon’s success was deeply reliant on the support of a dedicated team. The effort involved coaching and support from fellow ice milers Mel Van Pypen and Josef Polcz, on-water assistance from Georgian Bay Squall Masters Swimmers Mark Egan and Murray Cass, medical oversight from Stacey Kozak, documentation support from Barb Reynolds (Squall) and Kaija Guyon (daughter), and exit and rewarming assistance from Joe Guyon (spouse). The entire process, from initial training to the final swim, was described as a true adventure.
A previous attempt in December, with water temperatures around 2°C, was hampered by inclement weather. The April 19th swim, however, proved successful, demonstrating Guyon’s resilience and the team’s meticulous preparation.
Beyond the Swim: Fundraising and the Future of Ice Swimming
Cindy Guyon’s achievement extends beyond personal accomplishment. She is also leveraging her swim to raise funds for the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital and for breast cancer research.
The IISA, founded in 2009, has been instrumental in establishing ice swimming as a recognized extreme sport, emphasizing safety and integrity. Attempting an ice mile requires diligent training and strict adherence to safety protocols, highlighting the significant undertaking involved.
Guyon’s successful swim serves as an inspiration and a testament to the power of dedication, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of adventure.
