Get your news fix on happenings outside the pool with the latest ‘Beyond the Lane Lines.’ With each edition, we collect personal stories, little known facts and general items of interest from around the world. Read on and learn something new this week.
#1 Rikako Ikee Tackles a Lion
We’re all looking for fun activities we can do at home during the coronavirus pandemic, whether it’s reading, streaming, or tackling a SwimSwam crossword puzzle. 19-year-old Rikako Ikee of Japan, the Asian Games MVP released from hospitalization for leukemia in December, tried a 1000-piece puzzle on for size.
Per her Instagram post last week, Ikee said the puzzle was ‘really tough’ and took her 6 days. But, ‘it was a great way to kill time’, said the free and fly sprint specialist.
Ikee is also the subject of a new documentary airing on Japanese television this month. Entitled, ‘Hello, Rikako Ikee‘, the feature shows the teen pre-illness, as well as her life in the hospital.
“For those who have lost hope, I want you to know that I’m fine. You may be surprised to see what you can do,” inspires Ikee via her official website.
#2 Michael Phelps Touts Soy Milk
The most decorated Olympian of all-time, American Michael Phelps, has been selected as one of Silk Soymilk’s newest faces. Along with famed American gymnast Aly Raisman, Phelps will grace the front of Silk Soymilk cartons hitting shelves in the United States this month.
Phelps and Raisman are joining Silk to help provide nourishment to people who need it most through a donation of 1.5 million meals** ($150,000) to Feeding America®, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization.
Phelps and Raisman will also be encouraging fans to stay motivated and thrive from home with a mix of healthy recipes and training tips.
“I’ve enjoyed soymilk for years and am excited to be working with Silk while also helping to support Feeding America!” said Phelps. “This period of slowing down has reminded me about the importance of both physical and mental health, and how food plays such an essential role in our daily life. Both Silk and I realize how important it is to keep everyone fueled, and we are proud to help support people in need during these challenging times.”
One of the most affluent cities within the nation of Sweden is opening a new swimming pool. Kungsbacka, located in Halland County, is set to open its new swimming hall on May 9th. The facility will be home to a training pool, a family pool, and two teaching pool.
The largest pool is 50×25 meters and has 10 lanes. It is also divisible and offers a three-meter diving platform. Kungsbacka bathhouse is estimated to cost $426 million and is Kungsbacka’s largest investment ever. Photos of the new facility can be seen here.
#4 Molly Hannis Gets Engaged
“Yes Yes Yes!” A million times, “Yes!” What an amazing weekend. I love you with all my heart Matthew. I can’t wait to be your WIFE! ❤️💍 #engaged
#5 Bosveld Zemlin Enters Minnesota Swimming Hall of Fame
Open water swimmer Karen Bosveld Zemlin was inducted into the Minnesota Swimming Hall of Fame last month, representing the first HOF member to have specialized in the discipline.
Bosveld Zemlin raced at Mounds View High School, followed by the University of River Falls and Hamline University. Now 53 years of age, Bosveld Zemlin is a Masters swimmer owning state records in distance events in every Masters age group. She has been named USMS All–American a total of six times for open water and pool events.
She is the fastest woman age 50+ to swim the English Channel. Previous Minnesota Swimming Hall of Fame inductees include Tom Malchow, David Plummer, Rachel Bootsma and Mallory Weggemann.