Ana Marcela Cunha, marathon-swimming world champion, became the first Brazilian winner of the Capri-Napoli Crossing, in Italy. She did it while wearing a customized swim cap in honor of Ayrton Senna, alluding to the green and yellow helmet of the three-time F1 world champion.

Ana Marcela also broke the competition’s record by completing the 36 km race in 6h24m45 – more than 6 minutes faster than the previous mark. “The sea was pretty rough, but fortunately everything worked out well. The tribute to Ayrton Senna was complemented by the victory and the new record, just the way he liked it”, said the athlete.

The crossing started at 9h30 (local time), on Sunday, with 20 men and 10 women in competition. Ana Marcela was among the first since the beginning, and kept a steady pace to gain distance on the men, until she reached the Naples Rowing Association. The Brazilian’s name will be permanently engraved on the race’s trophy.

“I thank all my sponsors and my club, all of whom helped us achieve this unprecedented title, along with a first-ever record for Brazil”, says Ana.