Conquering the Escape from Alcatraz Challenge

This month, Pasco County athlete Marlynne Stutzman achieved one of the world’s most legendary open-water swims.

Marlynne took on the Odyssey Escape from Alcatraz Challenge, making the two-mile trek from Alcatraz Island — home of the historic prison — to the St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco. Battling 61-degree water and strong currents, the swim required both determination and endurance.

“The water was choppy and cold,” she recalled. “My hands went numb during the swim, but it was a great test and a really fun experience.”

Nicknamed “The Fish,” Marlynne is no stranger to remarkable accomplishments. A Special Olympics USA Games gold medalist and Special Olympics Florida Hall of Famer, she has also run the Boston Marathon and competed in multiple triathlons. Last year, she completed the grueling IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Marlynne serves as an Athlete Leader, regularly speaking to local organizations and encouraging her fellow athletes to push beyond limits.