Raymond Swan

Achievements:

• Bermuda Marathon Derby Winner: Claimed the Marathon Derby title twice.

• Olympic Representation: Represented Bermuda in the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

• Boston Marathon Records: Set a Bermuda record at the 1981 Boston Marathon with a time of 2:26:37.

• Commonwealth Games Participant: Competed in the 1978 Commonwealth Games.

• International Race Weekend Marathon Titles: Won the local International Race Weekend marathon title 11 times, including at age 50.

• Veterans Division Winner: First non-American to win the veterans division (50+) of the Boston Marathon in 1990.

• Founder of Swan's Running Club: Established and became the first president of Swan's Running Club.

Biography:

Raymond Swan is proof that age shouldn't be a barrier to achieving your dreams. Ray began his running career in his early 30s and quickly became known as "Bermuda's undisputed King of the Road." His journey from novice to national treasure is a testament to dedication, hard work, and an unyielding passion for the sport.

Swan's entry into running was almost accidental. His wife, Burnette, and a group of friends planned to participate in a charity run. Ray joined them for a training session, and his interest in running was sparked. He quickly progressed, losing his first 13-mile race to Garry 'Buster' Douglas and Jeff Payne, but soon began claiming victories of his own.

Despite starting his marathon career at the age of 32, Ray's natural talent and rigorous training regimen quickly paid off. He won his first marathon at the National Championships with a time of 3:00:15, a record he would surpass many times in his later years.

Ray's commitment to the sport was evident in his preparation for the 1976 Olympics. Logging over 100 miles a week and running 18 miles before breakfast, he qualified for the Montreal Games at the age of 37, finishing with a commendable time of 2:39:18. His dedication only grew stronger, leading him to set a Bermuda record at the 1981 Boston Marathon with a time of 2:26:37, a record that still stands today.

Swan's success extended beyond the Boston Marathon. He won the Bermuda Marathon Derby twice, claimed the master's division of the Westchester half marathon in New York in 1983, and finished second in the master's division of the Boston Marathon in 1980 and 1981. By the age of 43, Ray had competed in 21 marathons worldwide, including events in Barbados, Japan, and Korea.

In 1990, Ray became the first non-American to win the veterans division (50+) of the Boston Marathon with a time of 2:40:12. His love for running also led him to establish Swan's Running Club, where he served as the first president, encouraging others to embrace the sport.

Ray's achievements were not only limited to his personal records but also included his efforts to promote running in Bermuda. He inspired countless others to take up the sport, demonstrating that dedication and perseverance could lead to extraordinary success, regardless of when one starts.

Legacy:

Raymond Swan's legacy is one of inspiration and achievement. As Bermuda's "Mr. Marathon," his records and victories have set a high standard for future generations of runners. His dedication to the sport, late start, and remarkable achievements serve as a powerful example that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. Swan's influence extends beyond his personal accomplishments, as he has inspired and mentored countless runners through Swan's Running Club. His enduring impact on Bermuda's running community cements his place among the island's greatest athletes.