As she dives into the daunting depths of New Zealand's Lake Wānaka, Livi Schmid, a University of Denver alumna, isn't just swimming for the thrill. Her 27-mile swim across the lake is a gesture aimed at supporting local freshwater conservation and nurturing the swim-savvy youth of the Wanaka Swim Club. Having only five people conquer these waters before her, Schmid is prepped to join a league of exceptional marathon swimmers, tentatively testing her limits on the weekend of Feb. 15, weather permitting, as reported by the University of Denver.

Moving to New Zealand in 2022, Schmid linked with the Wanaka Swim Club, finding a renewed passion for the sport. "I really wanted to find a way to give back to the community for everything they’ve given me," she said, as per University of Denver. Teaming with the local organization WAI Wānaka, they collectively aim to address the declining condition of the lake which, not only a stunning sight surrounded by the Southern Alps, is the main water source for the region. With lake conditions ranging from a bracing 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the mid-February event promises a chilling challenge.

A supportive team featuring two boats, two kayakers, and a rotation of up to three swimmers will flank Schmid in her epic course. Enlisting guidance from her former collegiate coaches, including Associate Head Coach Mark McGuire, and local ex-marathon swimmers Belinda Donaldson and Cameron Stanley, who've previously conquered the lake themselves, Schmid is embarking on the swim, which will be "the longest swim of her career." It’s a synergy of personal achievement and communal contribution, as Schmid further explained, “I’m excited to do the whole swim at once and experience the lake in its entirety. I think that will be really special,” as obtained by the University of Denver.