Ayla’s Executive Chef Thomas Brosnan Officially Recognized for Historic Swim Along Jordan’s Coastline

The World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) has officially ratified and awarded Thomas Joseph Brosnan, Executive Chef at Ayla Oasis Development Company, a certificate of achievement for successfully completing the first-ever swim of the full Jordanian coastline in the Gulf of Aqaba.

Brosnan completed the 27.1 km swim, a 21 km distance as the crow flies, in an extraordinary time of 9 hours and 1 minute on November 6, 2024. The swim began at Ayla’s picturesque lagoons and concluded at the Jordan-Saudi border, carving a new record as the first officially recognized endurance swim along the entirety of Jordan’s Red Sea coastline.

With this recognition, the accomplishment is now etched in open water swimming history, honoring Brosnan not only for his athletic determination but also for his commitment to showcasing Jordan’s natural beauty and marine heritage.

Brosnan shared his excitement, stating, “There are no words that can express my gratitude and appreciation for the support I received from the beginning of this adventure — for this, I will be forever grateful. Ayla’s effective leadership, support, and encouragement removed any doubts I had about continuing or even completing The Swim. I am inspired by Ayla’s leadership, and it makes me sincerely and extremely proud to be part of Ayla.”

The success of this extraordinary journey would not have been possible without the collective support and spirit of teamwork that defined the day. Brosnan extends his heartfelt thanks to the Royal Jordanian Navy and Boats, and the Royal Jordanian Marine Sports Federation, whose presence and coordination ensured the safety and precision of the swim. He also expresses deep appreciation for Ayla’s dedicated divers, support swimmers, and the social media team who documented and celebrated the effort in real-time.

The Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort played a key role in providing support and hospitality throughout the challenge, while Ayla’s management, security teams, and staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the day a success. Special gratitude is extended to the “Alrayes Boat” team for their vital role in marine support, and to the Rawhi Clinic for Health and Emergency Medical Services for standing by throughout the swim to ensure medical preparedness. Finally, Brosnan thanks his family and every individual who stood behind this challenge — each of whom he plans to personally reach out to and to thank for being a part of this unforgettable milestone.

Brosnan also received special recognition and encouragement from H.E Ramzi Al-Kabariti, Commissioner of Youth and Entrepreneurship at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, whose patronage helped bring visibility and purpose to the event.

As a lifelong swimmer who grew up by the sea in Ireland, Brosnan described the journey as deeply personal; a fusion of endurance, purpose, and passion for the ocean. “This swim is more than a personal goal; it’s a message — a celebration of Aqaba and a call to protect its beautiful marine environment.”

With this ratification, Brosnan’s name is now officially tied to a once-in-a-lifetime swim that will inspire future athletes, conservationists, and dreamers alike.