BRYAN'S BIG SWIMS

Big swims. Lifesaving impact.

Dr. Bryan Huffman takes on extraordinary open-water challenges to help provide free or reduced-cost swim lessons for children in West Michigan.
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Swimming with a purpose

Since 2022, Bryan has turned his passion for marathon swimming into support for children throughout West Michigan.

Through Bryan’s Big Swims, he raises funds for the HAC Foundation to help provide free or reduced-cost swim lessons that teach critical water safety skills and support drowning prevention.

meet bryan

Dr. Bryan Huffman is an ophthalmologist, Michigan Lakeshore Aquatics Masters swimmer and longtime Holland Aquatic Center member. Born and raised in West Michigan, Bryan combines his passion for open-water swimming with a deep commitment to helping children in his community become safer in and around the water.

When he is not working or training, Bryan enjoys restoring classic cars, remodeling homes and spending time outdoors with his wife, Stacy, and their two sons, Quinten and Barrett.

Bryan’s 2026 swims

This year, Bryan is taking on three major open-water challenges to raise funds for free or reduced-cost swim lessons for children in West Michigan.

Swim dates are weather-dependent and may shift based on water conditions and swimmer safety.

why your support matters
For many families, cost can be a barrier to swim lessons. Donations to Bryan’s Big Swims help expand access so more children can learn essential water safety skills in a supportive environment.
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Bryan’s Journey
2025
Lake Huron
Safety Comes First

Bryan completed more than 30 miles of the 35-mile Lake Huron crossing before ending the swim because of cold and exhaustion. His decision reflected the importance of safety in marathon open-water swimming.

2024
Lake Erie & Catalina Channel
Triple Crown Achieved

Bryan completed crossings of Lake Erie and the Catalina Channel, becoming the first Michigan resident to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.

2023
Lake Michigan & 20 Bridges
Perseverance Pays Off

Mechanical issues with a support boat ended Bryan’s Lake Michigan attempt, but he went on to complete the 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan. Bryan’s Big Swims raised $44,605 that year to support swim lessons.

2022
English Channel
A Purpose Takes Shape

Bryan completed the English Channel crossing and decided to use his open-water swims to give back to the West Michigan community.

“We are so grateful for Bryan’s big heart and the amazing way he has supported HAC with each of these big swims. More kids in West Michigan are going to learn how to swim and be much safer in and around the water because of his efforts.”


Amanda Duimstra

Holland Aquatic Center Executive Director

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