Marathon Swimmer | PhD | Endurance Athlete | High-Performance Strength & Conditioning Coach | Army Officer | Samoan Matai | Husband | Father | Dyslexic
A Life of Endurance and Purpose
Dr. David Edgar is an accomplished marathon swimmer from New Zealand whose achievements in open-water swimming are matched by his dedication to academic research and his pursuit of excellence in military service. With a remarkable record in triathlon, endurance sport, and long-distance swimming, David has pushed himself to the extremes both physically and mentally—demonstrating extraordinary determination, focus, and resilience.
The Triple Crown Achievement
On 9 February 2025, David successfully swam the 28 km Foveaux Strait from Stewart Island to Bluff, completing the New Zealand Marathon Swimming Triple Crown—a milestone that cements his place among the nation’s elite open-water swimmers.
This feat followed his crossings of the 42 km Lake Taupō in 2019 and the 23 km Cook Strait in March 2024. Yet for David, this is only the beginning. His next goal is to complete the Ocean Seven—a global series of the world’s toughest open-water swims, including the English Channel, North Channel, Gibraltar Strait, Catalina Channel, Tsugaru Strait, and Molokaʻi Channel.
Academic Excellence and Research Impact
Alongside his athletic pursuits, David completed his PhD through Waikato University in 2023 while working full time and still finding time for ocean and lake swims.
His thesis, Combatting the War on Sleep: Sleep and Recovery in the Military, explored innovative ways to improve recovery and performance in military and high-performance environments.
The research examined how military trainees sleep and tested interventions—such as reduced bright lighting, compression garments, and placebo devices—to enhance sleep quality and physical performance.
This work has contributed valuable insights to the military and elite sport sectors, bridging scientific research with practical application.
Leadership, Service, and Advocacy
A Major in the New Zealand Army, David commands the Physical Performance Squadron for the New Zealand Defence Force, overseeing gym operations, daily training programs, and all Physical Training Instructors across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
He has also held senior Strength & Conditioning roles in professional rugby with Waikato, The Chiefs, Suntory, and Kintetsu in Japan, and led the performance programs for Manu Samoa at three Rugby World Cups.
Beyond his professional and sporting success, David is passionate about raising awareness for dyslexia, a challenge he lives with daily. Through his open-water missions, he advocates for understanding, support, and opportunity for others facing similar struggles—showing that persistence, courage, and belief can overcome even the strongest currents.
