Fresh from his collaboration with The Westin Maldives, champion freediver Christian Redl discusses the impact the sport has on raising awareness for ocean conservation.
Christian Redl is a renowned freediver and underwater athlete from Austria, best known for his remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport of freediving. His expertise lies in the disciplines that involve diving without breathing apparatus, relying solely on the diver’s ability to hold their breath. However, Christian Redl’s contributions to freediving go beyond personal achievements; he plays a significant role in promoting the sport globally. His athleticism, combined with his advocacy for environmental change, positions him as a key figure in both the freediving community and the broader conversation about marine conservation.
Can you share with us what inspired you to start freediving and how your journey in the sport has evolved over the years?
When I was six years old, my uncle gave me my first fins and mask, and I started snorkelling in the lakes of Austria. At the age of 10, I began scuba diving, always dreaming of a career underwater. Initially, I aspired to be a marine biologist, then an offshore commercial diver, and eventually a military diver. However, at 17, after watching the movie The Big Blue, I discovered freediving as a sport with world records. Jean Reno’s role in the film left a lasting impression on me, and it became the blueprint for my life.
What are some of the most challenging environments you have free-dived in, and how do you prepare yourself mentally and physically for such extreme conditions?
I love challenges; I think people should leave their comfort zone more often because then you learn. Most of my world records are done under ice or in caves – the North Pole was really cold, minus two degrees in the water and minus 40 degrees outside. The mental preparation is very important, but that’s what I like about it.
With twelve world records under your belt, can you walk us through one of your most memorable achievements and the dedication it took to reach that milestone?
My most memorable achievement was the highest freedive in the world at 5,150m at Lake Gokyo in Nepal. It was not easy: I was working with many doctors, and most of them said it was impossible. However, after six months of training and preparation and 10 days of hiking, I set the world record. You need passion, that’s the most important thing. I always ask myself: “Why do I want this?” and “How much do I want this?” And when the two questions are answered, you always find solutions and not problems.
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Tell us about your latest record for the longest 24-hour underwater cycling. What motivated you to attempt this record, and what were the key challenges you faced during the feat?
That was funny because normally a world record is recorded in minutes – in that case, it was 24 hours. And normally I set a world record alone and not with a team of athletes. That was my personal challenge, but I loved it and I learned so much.
How can freediving contribute to raising awareness and promotion of ocean conservation efforts, especially in fragile ecosystems like the Maldives’ UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?
As a freediver, you have a much higher connection to the water and marine life than a scuba diver, for example. You are like a fish among fishes – you make no bubbles and no noise so the marine life like dolphins and sharks come much closer and that’s fantastic. And when you realise that everything is connected, you want to protect it.
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Can you share some insights into your non-profit organisation, 7oceans, and the initiatives you are leading to address critical ocean issues, such as coral bleaching, overfishing and plastic waste pollution?
The idea behind 7oceans – For the Love of the Oceans is simple. On one hand, I want to be the spokesperson for the oceans, and on the other hand, I want to be a platform for solutions. I believe there is a solution to every problem and that’s why we organise speeches at conferences and schools as well as events to clean water and build reefs, remembering that every second breath we take is from the ocean and when the ocean dies, we die.
You recently collaborated with Marriott Bonvoy to offer unique freediving experiences in the Maldives. What do you hope participants in these events will take away from the experience in terms of ocean conservation and personal growth?
Through my collaboration with The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, I hope participants will undergo significant personal growth and develop a deep appreciation for the ocean. Freediving is not only about mastering breath control but also about connecting with the underwater world in a way that reveals its profound beauty. Many participants were able to extend their breath-hold times, often doubling their previous limits, which is an empowering realisation. More importantly, by witnessing the ocean’s splendour first-hand, they’re likely to feel a stronger commitment to ocean conservation.
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How do you see collaborations between the hospitality industry, such as The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and ocean conservation advocates like yourself making a meaningful impact on environmental sustainability and community engagement?
I think that’s the most important thing. While the tourism industry is very important, resorts like The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo have a significant impact on both the environment and local communities. To sustain tourism in the long term, it’s essential to preserve the natural beauty that attracts visitors.
My collaboration with The Westin Maldives extends beyond the resort to Maalhos Island, where we conducted plastic pollution awareness sessions for residents and students as well as island cleanups. This initiative aims to educate the local community on the importance of ocean protection. By inspiring and involving both visitors and locals, we promote a shared responsibility for marine conservation, ensuring the preservation of our oceans for future generations.
What advice would you give to aspiring freedivers looking to push their limits and make a positive difference in ocean conservation efforts?
The most important thing in life is to give something back. Being a world record holder is most of the time a selfish project. You do it for you and your ego. After a few world records, I discovered that this view is not satisfying. So for my last records, I have always had a higher purpose.
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