How Ali Ruiz breaks barriers at sea as the first Filipina to complete 23-km Bohol to Cebu swim
Most people would see a 23-kilometer swim across the open ocean as impossible. But for Pinay swimmer Ali Ruiz, it was a dream she had been chasing for a year.
After months of intense training, she made history by becoming the first Filipina to swim from Bohol to Cebu successfully. She fought through the marathon swim in just over 11 and a half hours.
Learning that Atty. Ingemar Macarine—a Filipino long-distance swimmer, marathoner, and environmental lawyer—was the first person to complete the swim ignited a new fire in her.
Ruiz became determined to be the first woman to accomplish the same feat, explaining that "it became a personal challenge" and "a way to promote endurance sports."
"I feel very fulfilled with this achievement. It's been on my mind for over a year, I prepared for it for four months, and to finally complete it feels rewarding," she told PhilSTAR L!fe.
Though she only started open-water swimming three years ago, Ruiz never doubted that she could rise to the challenge.
"I don't really set timelines for big achievements like this," she said. "I believe opportunities come when we're ready, so I just focus on improving and getting better."
Preparation and training
The night before, Ruiz loaded herself up on carbs and protein to keep her full until the next day.
During the swim, she took energy gels every 1.5 hours, ate bananas when she felt like having solid food, and had watermelon to balance out the saltwater taste.
Although endurance is a key factor in an open water swim, Ruiz worked on mental toughness. She spent time studying the map of the crossing, imagining the nerves and fears she might feel.
"I visualized myself swimming while looking at the map. I let myself feel the nerves, fear, and excitement ahead of time. By the time I was actually swimming, I could focus on finishing because I had already processed those emotions.
The swim experience
Ruiz began her swim at sunrise, hoping to finish before the sun went down. The first nine kilometers passed smoothly, but then the ocean turned against her.
For over 11 hours, she fought strong currents, dodged unexpected boats, and pushed through physical and mental fatigue.
"I had to adjust my strategy and adapt to the conditions instead of fighting them," she told L!fe.
At one point, passenger vessels cut through their path. She had to sprint for some time to avoid the boats or prevent the ship from hitting them without disrupting their normal operations.
"My strength is endurance, not speed, so, instead of a slow and steady pace, which I planned, I have to sprint for some time. It wasn't part of my strategy, but I just did what was needed," she continued.
As the first Filipina to attempt the swim, Ruiz carried the hopes of women across the nation. She was supported by a dedicated crew on a boat, which included a doctor, an observer, a photographer, and a videographer. They were also assisted by a communicator with a telescope who watched for upcoming boats, and a stand-up paddleboarder named Cyrel Igot.
"The support crew was very important. I trust them completely in their roles. Last year, I did a 12 km solo swim in Mactan with Cyrel as my paddleboard guide, and I trust him a lot in this field. I'd definitely do another big swim with him again," she shared.
'A once-in-a-lifetime experience'
Ruiz's victory was an emotional triumph for a woman who wasn't afraid to dream big.
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I'm grateful for the strength I've been given, both mentally and physically. I hope more Filipinas get into sports and keep pushing their limits in their own fields," she told L!fe.
Though she carried the pressure of being the first woman to try this, Ruiz chose to focus on the task at hand.
Looking ahead, Ruiz is starting to do training again next month for the Oceanman World Championship in Dubai. She'll be swimming the 10-kilometer race at Kite Beach this December.
Throughout this milestone, she wanted to make her journey a reminder that opportunities arise when one is prepared to seize them, regardless of timelines or perceived limitations.
"Keep improving in whatever craft you choose, and don't limit yourself. You're capable of more than you think," she said.
"I hope more Filipinos embrace sports and make an active lifestyle a normal part of life. If they choose open-water swimming, our community is growing and there's a place for them," Ruiz concluded.
