Deborah Gardner targets historic Santa Barbara Channel swim

Deborah Gardner is set to attempt a first-of-its-kind backstroke swim from Anacapa Island to Oxnard, California, on Sept. 1, 2026, while backing Southern Cross Service Dogs. The effort follows her Catalina Channel record and blends a charity mission with another endurance milestone.

Why it matters: - Deborah Gardner’s attempt would add another open-water first to a résumé already marked by a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD. - The swim is tied to a charity effort supporting Southern Cross Service Dogs, which helps provide service dogs to veterans and aims to reduce veteran suicide. - Gardner is framing the effort as a message that age does not end ambitious goals.

What happened: - Deborah Gardner is preparing to swim the 12.5-mile Santa Barbara Channel on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026. - The route is from Anacapa Island to Oxnard, California. - Gardner is aiming to become the first person to complete that crossing by backstroke. - The swim is being called SKYWARD67, a reference to moving forward at age 67 while looking up at the sky throughout the swim. - Gardner previously completed the Catalina Channel and earned a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD.

The details: - The course is expected to bring rough currents, ship traffic, oil rigs and sea life. - Gardner’s effort is supported by a crew and sponsors including Red Equipment, Hammer Nutrition, Dare To Retire, Tin Can Timepieces and Sportkini. - The mission is being dedicated to Gardner’s 91-year-old father, Major Joedy Gardner, USMC Ret. - Gardner is continuing to back Southern Cross Service Dogs through this attempt. - More information, donations and support are available through the mission page. - A live stream is planned on social media, and a boat tracker is available through the tracking map. - Corporate sponsorships are still available. - Media coverage is invited to document the attempt.

Between the lines: - The swim combines endurance sport, fundraising and personal tribute in one public event. - The backstroke angle and first-ever route attempt create the record-setting hook, while the charity focus broadens the mission beyond athletics. - Gardner’s messaging centers on resilience and aging, which gives the event a broader inspirational pitch.

What's next: - Gardner’s attempt is scheduled for Sept. 1, 2026. - Supporters can follow the swim through the live stream and boat tracker. - Sponsors and media can still get involved before the attempt begins. - The outcome will determine whether Gardner completes the first backstroke crossing between Anacapa Island and Oxnard.