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Wilton Library Lands World-Class Swimmer Diana Nyad On Day Of Book Release

WILTON, Conn. -- In an age when people turn to social media to find encouraging messages, Wilton Library is pleased to host real-life inspiration long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Long distance swimmer Diana Nyad to speak at Wilton Library on Oct. 20.

Long distance swimmer Diana Nyad to speak at Wilton Library on Oct. 20.

Photo Credit: Submitted

Nyad will discuss her new book, "Find A Way," which is set for publication on the same day of her visit. Nyad captivated the world with her historic open-water swim from Cuba to Florida in 2013.

When the then-64-year-old Nyad old stood on the shore of Key West after completing the 110-mile, 53-hour, record-breaking swim, she said three things: “never, ever give up; you’re never too old to chase your dreams; and it looks like a solitary sport, but it takes a team.” 

Millions were inspired by Nyad's dedication, determination and the will that drove her to achieve her dream—one which she had tried and failed at four times previously.

In "Find A Way," Nyad relates her incredible life story in her own words. Swimming provided her a refuge from her tumultuous upbringing, and, as a result, she became a world-class swimmer by the time she finished high school. 

Nyad turned to open-water swimming in her 20s and never looked back. She swam around Manhattan in 1975 and became a star, appearing on "The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson."

A year later, she made her first attempt at the Cuba-to-Florida swim; the following year, she broke the open-ocean world record for men and women on her 30th birthday, after which she did not swim another stroke for three decades.

Nyad tells the story of how in her 60s, she felt she had one more quest – Cuba. Readers can find out what inspired her to pick up her sport again and the drive, determination and teamwork it took to make her dream come true.

“Her story is about so much more than swimming – it’s about setting your mind to something and the perseverance, motivation and strength it takes to make it happen," said Karen Danvers, program manager at Wilton Library. "It’s such a great message for young and old, athletes and non-athletes, someone dealing with adversity or change. There’s something in it for everyone. We’re looking forward to this very special night.”

Tickets for the event are $30 each, which includes two seats at the talk and a hardcover copy of "Find A Way." A portion of the book sales will benefit Wilton Library. Books will be distributed at check-in, beginning at 6 p.m. on the night of the event. Additional books will be available for purchase at the program courtesy of Elm Street Books. There will be a Q&A and book signing following the talk.

For information about the event, ticket purchases and directions, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. For ticket purchases only, call 203-762-3950, ext. 247.

Wilton Library is at 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton.

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