How Mexico Took Me from Zero to Oceanman in a Month
A welcoming beach, a few new friends, and a big leap back into open-water swimming.
I’ve never thought of myself as an elite athlete. I’m more of a “dawdle around and take photos of things on long rambling walks” kind of girl. But after discovering a supportive and welcoming place for swimmers, I decided to jump in and start swimming again—after an eight-year break.
Within a month, I’d entered Oceanman and completed my first open-water swim race. Amazing, right? Here’s what happened…
Recently, when someone told me about an ocean swimming area with free lockers, I moseyed over to check it out. I must have walked past this place a hundred times, always assuming it was a swim club you had to join.
Turns out, it’s simply a spot where ocean swimmers gather. All are welcome, from beginners to those training for Ironman triathlons or big open-water races like Oceanman. Best of all, it’s free.
This little beach—Playa Mantarrayas, or Manta Ray Beach—is such a welcoming place that I decided to start swimming again. If you’re like me, you sometimes have those “you need to get up and get your body moving” talks with yourself. This was the perfect place to start.
Discovering Oceanman
On my second visit, a lady told me about Oceanman, something she trained for daily. I’ll admit, I was curious, so I Googled it.
It’s a worldwide event, with 10km and 5km swims, plus a smaller 1.5km sprint. With less than a month before the start, the big swims were already closed for registration. But the sprint was still open, so I decided to give it a go. Why not?
I know, you probably think I’m crazy, but all the swimmers were so supportive, I felt like I could do anything.
Within two weeks, I’d gone from zero to hero, able to swim the whole distance. That left me a week and a half to build my fitness. At that point, I had no visions of grandeur or placing in the Top 10.
To me, I’d already won. I was enjoying a truly amazing experience, ticking off fitness goals, and making positive lifestyle changes. That’s what it was all about, getting my body moving again. Even completing an Oceanman in such a short time was a huge win for me.
Race Day
And complete it I did.
Surrounded by a small sea of lime-green swim caps, we got ready to run into the ocean.
Being my first time, I was happy to let the rush go first. Once we got past the first buoy, I could separate from the pack and settle into a rhythm.
Just me, the peace of the water, and the ocean supporting my body as I glided through some of the clearest, most beautiful water you’ve ever seen. It was magic.
As you might guess, I didn’t place in the Top 10. My friend onshore timed me and said I finished in under an hour, just over half the allocated time. Considering I’d only been swimming for a month, that was amazing to me.
More Than a Race
The most beautiful thing was how supportive everyone was. It wasn’t about beating others—it was about community, fun, and the fact that you gave it a go.
To me, that is gold. It’s a beautiful reminder that I live in a country with a different perspective. Back home in Australia, especially in the Navy, it was extremely competitive. But here, in the warmth of Mexican culture, I’m supported no matter what.
Even after eight years on my beautiful island home, I’m still surprised, in wonderful ways. I’m still finding new and fun things to do.
I’m very thankful for my new swimming community and the warmth of the Mexican people. And while I still love my rambling walks, I don’t think this will be my last Oceanman.
— Bel Woodhouse, IL Mexico Correspondent
Discover the Place Bel Calls Home
Want to see more of the life that makes epic swims like Oceanman possible?
Join expat Bel Woodhouse as she shares the reasons she moved to Mexico and gives an insider’s glimpse into her daily life on the tropical island of Cozumel, including the apartment she rents for just $500 a month. You’ll also discover her favorite spots, activities, and hidden gems that have become part of her world there.
Editor’s note: Curious about where to live in Mexico as a U.S. expat? Check out our guide to the best places to live in Mexico—full of lifestyle insights, cost breakdowns, and expert advice.