FLOW swim coach claims three bronze medals

Mark Johnston, coach of the Flathead Lake Open Water Swimmers (FLOWS), earned three bronze medals at the 2025 World Masters Swimming Championship held in Singapore Aug. 7-14, placing third in the world in his age group (65–69). It's his best performance yet in the elite contest. 

Competing among more than 6,000 athletes from around the globe, the Polson resident and long-distance swimmer delivered a world-class pool performance.

Johnston raced in five events: the 100-, 200-, 400-, and 800-meter freestyle, along with the 200-meter Individual Medley (IM). He claimed bronze medals in the 200-, 400-, and 800-meter freestyle, achieving a podium finish in each and cementing his status as one of the fastest Masters swimmers in the world in his age group.

Johnston also placed seventh in the 100 freestyle and ninth in the 200 IM, rounding out an impressive showing.

According to Johnston, one of the most meaningful aspects of this championship was the story behind the medals themselves. Through a special initiative titled “Tin to Treasure,” the medals were crafted from recycled tin roofing once used in Singapore’s local schools and public housing.

Symbolizing transformation and resilience, the medals were identical to those awarded the previous week to the World Aquatics Champions, “an honor that made each podium moment even more special,” said the swimmer.

Beyond his success at the podium, Johnston cited the cultural richness of the event as “the true highlight.” Not only did he compete shoulder to shoulder with athletes from around the world, but they had opportunities to share stories, and form bonds that transcend nationality and language.

Of course, he noted, it wasn’t all glamour. The 16-hour flight from San Francisco to Singapore (and back) tested endurance in its own way. “But every mile traveled was well worth it,” said the coach.

This marks the third time he's competed at this level. His first was at Stanford, Calif., in 2006 at age 46, with no placings in the top 25. He fared better in 2010 at age 50, when he competed in Sweden and placed eighth in two events and between 10th and 15th in three others.

"I’ve definitely moved up in the rankings as I get older," he said. His strategy is to compete when he's at the lower end of his age group, adding that he'll probably try again in 2030 when he turns 70. 

"If I live long enough, maybe I could actually win a World Championship!"