NYC SEAL Swim w/ Rhonda Vetere

Shooting Rhonda Vetere as she embarked on the NYC SEAL Swim was an extraordinary experience, one that left me both inspired and deeply humbled. Rhonda, a global icon in the tech world, demonstrated an awe-inspiring level of grit and determination as she joined literal superheroes—Navy SEALs and other elite athletes—on this grueling challenge. 

The event began at the solemn Empty Sky Memorial in Jersey City, a location charged with emotion and history. Watching Rhonda and her fellow participants dive into the Hudson River for the three-and-a-half-mile swim towards the Freedom Tower was a moment I won’t soon forget. The sheer willpower and focus required for such a feat were palpable, and capturing it on film was an honor.

But the swim was just the beginning. Upon reaching the shores of NYC, Rhonda transitioned into a seven-mile run, all while keeping pace with these highly trained warriors. Her stamina and resilience were nothing short of remarkable. And if that wasn’t enough, she completed the event with an astonishing 60 chin-ups and 300 push-ups—a testament to her physical and mental fortitude.

Throughout the day, I found myself repeatedly humbled by the presence of these real-life superheroes. It’s one thing to hear about the extraordinary efforts of Navy SEALs; it’s another entirely to witness them up close, especially alongside someone like Rhonda Vetere, who epitomizes strength, leadership, and perseverance.

Capturing this journey through my lens was more than just a professional assignment; it was an opportunity to document the relentless spirit of those who push beyond the limits of what most of us think is possible. Rhonda’s participation in the NYC SEAL Swim was a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential within us all, and I’m grateful to have been a part of this unforgettable day.