XTERRA WETSUITS is excited to outfit Katrina Murphy in a Vector Pro X2 triathlon wetsuit during her quest to swim across the Straits of Mackinac in August, and eventually become the first woman to swim across the middle of Lake Michigan (50 miles continuous) in 2011. Katrina, 31, resides in Caledonia, Michigan, is a stay at home wife and mother of three young children whom she home schools. She will be sharing her journey with XTERRA WETSUITS in bi-monthly postings right here on the XTERRA WETSUITS Blog.

Katrina had only been training in a pool until Monday, May 10 when she did her first open water swim in the 42 degree waters of Lake Huron for 30 minutes in her Vector Pro X2. While she’s swimming 12 miles per week right now, her goal is to be swimming 33 miles per week toward the end of summer.

Until just one year ago, Katrina had little swimming background, but had dreamt of swimming across Lake Michigan since she was young. Her dream is now becoming a reality after meeting her swimming hero, and now coach, Jim Dreyer, who has successfully swum across all of the Great Lakes.

Katrina’s Straits of Mackinac swim, a prelude to Lake Michigan, is a four mile point to point swim between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron meet. The Straits are some of the most treacherous waters in the world due to unpredictable and strong currents. She plans to make the swim August 15-19, depending on conditions.

Katrina is doing all of her swims to benefit The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. She is a strong supporter of the organization and of bringing awareness to mental health illnesses. Through education, Katrina hopes to eliminate the stigma that often accompanies mental health illnesses. Consequently, she believes that more people will have the courage to come forward and ask for the help they need. Katrina’s mission is close to her heart because she tried to commit suicide in 1997. She now believes that where there is a life, there is always hope.

Get frequent updates by joining Katrina’s Facebook group Long Distance Open Water Swimming, and of course check back here regularly for Katrina’s blog postings!