Dr. Mariam Binladen: A Trailblazer in Swimming and Humanitarian Efforts

Dr. Mariam Binladen recently completed a 30 km swim from Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, to Salman City, Bahrain, in 11 hours, showcasing her remarkable endurance. As a trailblazer for women in sports, she has made significant achievements, including being the first Arab woman to swim across various challenging waters. In addition to her athletic career, she is a dedicated dentist and humanitarian, empowering others through her work and encouraging Saudi women to pursue their dreams.

In a notable display of resilience, Dr. Mariam Binladen, a distinguished Saudi swimmer, successfully completed the Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge, traversing a remarkable 30 kilometers between Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, and Salman City, Bahrain. This extraordinary accomplishment was achieved in an impressive time of 11 hours, 25 minutes, and 47 seconds. Dr. Binladen holds several notable records as the first Arab woman to swim across the Red Sea to Egypt in October 2022, the first to navigate Dubai Creek in a 24-kilometer swim in 2017, and the first Gulf woman to conquer the English Channel in August 2016.

During her latest swim, Dr. Binladen articulated the extensive preparation involved, emphasizing her study of essential environmental factors such as tides, wind speed, and water temperatures to mitigate risks. “This swim was on my radar for 7 years,” she stated, reflecting on the complexities of deciding the right timing for such a challenge given the unpredictable weather conditions in the region. The event also posed challenges such as swimming in darkness, fluctuating temperatures, and navigating strong tides that often required substantial stamina and mental fortitude.

Dr. Binladen mentioned that instead of consuming nutrition every thirty minutes, she modified her feeding schedule to every fifteen minutes to combat hypothermia, maintaining necessary body heat until sunrise. She compared this experience to past swims, each with unique challenges, such as avoiding sharks during her Red Sea swim and contending with cold waters and shipping lanes during the English Channel crossing.

In addition to her remarkable swimming career, Dr. Binladen is a dentist committed to humanitarian efforts. She has made significant contributions, such as opening the first free dental treatment facility for Syrian refugees in Jordan’s Azraq camp in 2016. “I love to help people in any capacity I can, whether through treatment, inspiring them in sport, or supporting them to swim,” she expressed, highlighting the fulfillment she derives from her work.

As a trailblazer for women in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Binladen encourages her fellow countrywomen to pursue their aspirations. “My advice to Saudi women is to never give up on your dream; with hard work and dedication, you can fulfill your goals,” she declared. Looking ahead, she has several ambitious projects planned, conveying her dedication to personal and professional growth. Her overarching goal remains to lead a fulfilling life while positively impacting others through her endeavors.

Dr. Mariam Binladen’s journey is emblematic of the rapidly changing landscape for women in Saudi Arabia, where societal norms are evolving to empower female achievements in various fields, including sports and humanitarian efforts. Her swimming challenges, marked by innovation and determination, serve as an inspiration not only to women in her home country but also to aspiring athletes globally. Binladen’s blend of athletic prowess with her commitment to community service highlights the multifaceted roles women can play in contemporary society, particularly in a region where they are increasingly gaining prominence. Her achievements in open-water swimming illustrate the importance of personal ambition coupled with rigorous planning and adaptability to change in challenging environments.

Dr. Mariam Binladen exemplifies courage and commitment through her remarkable swimming achievements and humanitarian efforts. Her strategic approach and thorough preparation underscore the significance of resilience when facing formidable challenges. As she continues to inspire Saudi women and communities, Dr. Binladen’s determination in both sport and charity serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can make through dedication and perseverance. Her journey is one of encouragement for future generations to pursue their dreams without surrendering to limitations.

Original Source: www.arabnews.pk