On March 13–14, 2026, the United States freediving community marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of the nation’s first sanctioned under-ice depth freediving event. This groundbreaking achievement represents a new chapter in U.S. freediving history, opening the door for future competitions in one of the sport’s most demanding environments.
“This event represents more than a first—it signals the evolution of freediving in the United States. We are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport while maintaining the highest standards of safety, structure, and athlete support. Under-ice freediving demands a unique level of discipline and trust, and this successful event proves that our community is ready to meet that challenge.”
— Jeremy Stephan, President & Founder, US Freediving Federation
The event was organized by a dedicated group of freedivers in collaboration with the annual North American Ice Diving Festival, hosted by Midwest School of Diving in Minnesota. It was officially sanctioned by the US Freediving Federation and CMAS, ensuring adherence to international standards and competitive legitimacy. The primary goal was to establish the first U.S. under-ice depth records and to promote the growth of similar events across the country.
A Unique and Challenging Location
The site chosen for this historic event was Lake Ore-Be-Gone, a northern Minnesota lake known for its exceptional water clarity and remote setting. Upon arrival on March 13, participants were met with classic Minnesota conditions - a blizzard delivering over a foot of snow and strong winds. Despite the harsh weather, the team came together to prepare the site, demonstrating the collaborative spirit essential to under-ice diving. Tasks ranged from constructing shelters and cutting a 6-by-10-foot entry hole through 24 inches of ice, to heating water for divers and organizing food and warming stations.
The day concluded with comprehensive safety drills led by the judges alongside safety divers and medical personnel. While local divers are experienced in ice freediving, visiting athletes used this time to acclimate to the extreme conditions and familiarize themselves with the unique demands of diving under the ice.
Record Attempts Under Ice
On March 14, four athletes - two women and two men - undertook official record attempts in Constant Weight Bi-Fins (CWB) and Free Immersion (FIM), aiming to establish national records for both the United States and Peru.
Natalia Plagge CWT Bi-fins under Ice 20m (senior women)
Michelle Meneses FIM under Ice 20m (senior women)
David Faber FIM under Ice 15m (senior men)
Dr. Juani Valdivia CWT Bi-fins under Ice 20m (senior men)
The event was supported by a highly qualified safety team, including two CMAS judges, five safety divers, paramedics with an on-site EMS vehicle, and two physicians specializing in emergency services and hyperbaric care. This robust infrastructure ensured that all dives were conducted under strict safety protocols.
In addition to the core team, numerous volunteers contributed to the smooth operation of the event. From preparing hot meals and warm drinks to supplying hot water for rewarming and assisting athletes with wetsuit changes, the support system played a vital role in maintaining both safety and morale.
A Strong and Promising Beginning
Due to the novelty and variables inherent to under-ice freediving this inaugural event was private. Athletes approached their dives conservatively, prioritizing safety and successful execution over pushing extreme limits. All participants completed their dives successfully, marking not only the establishment of the first U.S. under-ice depth records but also the successful demonstration of a safe and repeatable event model.
This pioneering competition sets the stage for the continued evolution of under-ice freediving in the United States. With proven logistics, strong safety protocols, and growing interest, the future holds exciting potential for athletes seeking to explore the sport beneath the ice.
