Proud Papa Part III — HE MADE IT! Michael Sean Hodel Completes the English Channel in 10 Hours 48 Minutes
July 9, 2026
Birch Bay, Washington
Proud Papa Part III
HE MADE IT- Official Time 10 hrs-48 mins.
This morning my son, Michael Sean Hodel, successfully completed his English Channel swim from Dover to France.
As I understand it, Channel rules are simple and beautifully understated: you reach France, touch the rock, climb back aboard your escort boat, and then—if you’re lucky—celebrate with a little champagne before heading back to Dover.
Michael’s escort boat, Pegasus, carried his wife Joyce, who kept family and friends updated along the way. From Birch Bay, I spent the morning watching that yellow tracker arrow creep toward the French coast and hoping it was indeed Mike in the water behind it. Then came the word:
He made it.
Needless to say, his Proud Papa is very proud indeed.
Congratulations Michael on dong what so many people can only dream of doing.
💙🗡🙏🏼!
CONGRATULATIONS MIKE HODEL🏊♂️🇱🇷!!!
Now like all Dads who are swimmers you will set a goal or dream for both Ella & Tucker🤗! Hmm….have you ever thought about swimming/racing the Golden Gate??!! Somebody stop me……..….I’m already thinking same thoughts 🏊🏽♀️ahead for my great granddaughter Sophie! Don’t forget those playdate plans ahead for Frances and Sophie, Steve👍! No big deal, we’re only in our 80’s Steve……’lots of energy left in us🤣!!
Take care, stay well to you & family, Steve🥰!!
A very righteously proud papa indeed!