Home / Sports / Channel Swimming Icon Eileen Fenton Dies at 98
Channel Swimming Icon Eileen Fenton Dies at 98
4 Sep
Summary
- Eileen Fenton, a celebrated swimmer, passed away at 98.
- She successfully swam the English Channel in 1950.
- Fenton was honored with an MBE for coaching services.
Eileen Fenton, an inspirational figure in swimming and a former cross-channel athlete, has died at the age of 98. She made history in 1950 as the 13th woman to successfully complete an English Channel swim.
Following her athletic career, Fenton devoted herself to coaching, nurturing many athletes who later competed at the Olympic Games. Her commitment to the sport through voluntary coaching was recognized with an MBE in 2019.
She was a beloved resident of Dewsbury, where her achievements are celebrated in the town hall. Mayor of Kirklees, Karen Allison, described Fenton as a cherished figure whose determination left a significant mark on local history and British sports.
