Bob Roper

A legend in open-water swimming, "Napa Bob" is acknowledged as one of the true giants of open-water swimming over the past 40 years. In 1969, Bob crossed the Golden Gate in 17 minutes, 21 seconds, a record that stands to this day. In 2006, Bob held the first Roper Invitational with the goal of creating one of the premier open-water events of its kind. The Roper Invitational offers swimmers the chance to cross the Golden Gate under spectacular conditions, to meet fellow athletes from around the country, and to support good causes while doing it.