In an exclusive interview, six-time world champion jet skier Christy Swaid opens up about her life, her journey to becoming a Guinness World Record holder, and her transformative new venture, Checkered Flag Living. A symbol of resilience, inspiration, and empowerment, Christy’s story is a rallying cry for anyone ready to take charge of their lives.
Interviewer: Christy, your life has been a whirlwind of accomplishments. From breaking barriers in jet ski racing to becoming a Guinness World Record holder, you’ve inspired generations. Can you share a bit about your journey and what led you to create Checkered Flag Living?
Christy Swaid: Thank you! It’s been an incredible ride—quite literally. My journey began on the water in the ’80s, when I became one of the first women to compete at the highest levels of jet ski racing. Back then, the sport was dominated by men, and stepping into that world as a woman was both thrilling and daunting. Over the years, I clinched six world titles and became the winningest female in the history of the sport.
But life isn’t just about trophies and accolades; it’s about navigating challenges. From personal losses to balancing motherhood and a career, I’ve faced my fair share of obstacles. Each experience has shaped me, teaching me resilience and the importance of living with purpose. Checkered Flag Living is the culmination of all those lessons—a platform to empower others to embrace their challenges and cross their own finish lines with triumph.
Interviewer: You recently set a Guinness World Record, and at your age, no less! Can you tell us about that and what it symbolizes for you?
Christy Swaid: It was a dream come true! Setting a world record at this stage of my life felt like rewriting the narrative of what’s possible. The stunt was grueling—it tested my physical endurance and mental grit. But that’s exactly why I did it.
I wanted to show that age is just a number. Life doesn’t have to slow down as you get older. Instead, it’s a chance to redefine your limits, to push boundaries, and to inspire others to do the same. That record isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a message to everyone out there: It’s never too late to be amazing.
Interviewer: Checkered Flag Living is such a unique name. What’s the story behind it?
Christy Swaid: The name draws directly from my racing days. In jet ski racing, the checkered flag signifies the end of the race—a moment of triumph. But in life, I see the checkered flag as a symbol of resilience and victory over challenges.
Life is a race with obstacles, twists, and turns. Sometimes, the waters are calm; other times, they’re stormy. Checkered Flag Living is about embracing that journey, learning from it, and finding joy in crossing your personal finish lines, whatever they may be. It’s not just about winning—it’s about persevering and growing stronger with each lap.
Interviewer: You’ve also had incredible success with HEAL, Inc., which has impacted thousands of students nationwide. How does that work tie into Checkered Flag Living?
Christy Swaid: HEAL, Inc. was born from a deep desire to make a difference in the health and wellness of children. My husband and I created this program to bring fitness and nutrition education to schools, especially in underserved communities. The results have been phenomenal—kids improving their fitness, learning about healthy eating, and adopting habits that will serve them for life.
Checkered Flag Living is a natural extension of that work. It’s about taking the principles of health, resilience, and personal growth and applying them to people of all ages. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or someone navigating life’s transitions, the message is the same: You have the power to create a life of purpose and vitality.
Interviewer: Your career has spanned decades and taken you through many roles—athlete, mother, philanthropist, and now entrepreneur. What has been the most rewarding part of your journey?
Christy Swaid: Each role has been rewarding in its own way, but I think the common thread is impact. As an athlete, I inspired people to chase their dreams. As a mother, I’ve had the privilege of raising incredible kids who teach me as much as I teach them. And through HEAL and Checkered Flag Living, I’ve been able to touch lives in ways I never imagined.
Seeing someone light up because they’ve overcome a challenge or found new purpose—that’s the ultimate reward. It’s what keeps me going and fuels my passion for what I do.
Interviewer: You’re such an inspiration to women, especially those navigating midlife and beyond. What’s your advice to someone who feels stuck or uncertain about their next chapter?
Christy Swaid: First and foremost, believe in yourself. You are capable of more than you realize. Life isn’t a straight path; it’s full of detours and roadblocks, but those are where the growth happens.
My advice? Embrace the uncertainty. Take that first step, even if it’s small. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. And don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself. Life is too short to settle for anything less than extraordinary.
Interviewer: What’s next for you and Checkered Flag Living?
Christy Swaid: The possibilities are endless! We’re launching programs and resources to help people on their wellness journeys—whether it’s through fitness, nutrition, mindset coaching, or community building. I’m also working on a book that dives deeper into my story and the principles behind Checkered Flag Living.
And, of course, I’m continuing to challenge myself. Whether it’s through another record-breaking stunt or simply connecting with others, my mission is to keep inspiring people to live their best lives.
Interviewer: You’ve been called a “Wonder Woman” by many of your fans. How does that title sit with you?
Christy Swaid: It’s incredibly humbling. I think we all have a bit of Wonder Woman inside us—it’s just a matter of finding it and letting it shine. I’ve been blessed with amazing opportunities, but I’ve also worked hard to overcome my struggles. If my story can help someone else tap into their own strength, then I’ve done my job.
Interviewer: Finally, what do you hope people take away from your journey and from Checkered Flag Living?
Christy Swaid: I hope they see that life’s challenges are not roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. Whether you’re facing personal struggles, professional setbacks, or just trying to find your purpose, know that you have the power to turn those obstacles into opportunities.
Checkered Flag Living is about more than wellness—it’s about transformation. It’s about realizing that you’re stronger than you think, that you’re capable of greatness, and that your story is still being written. I hope everyone who hears my story or connects with CFL walks away feeling inspired to live boldly, embrace their journey, and cross their own finish lines with triumph.
Christy Swaid’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, reinvention, and living with purpose. Through Checkered Flag Living, she is empowering individuals to take the reins of their lives and embrace the journey toward personal victory. For more information, visit checkeredflagliving.com and follow Christy on social media @ChristySwaid.
CREDITS:
PR, Strategy, & Marketing:
The JKO Agency, LLC.
The LA Fashion Multimedia
Creative & Stylist:
Nina Vargas
Photographer:
Mike Yi
HnM: Anisa Mistry
Stylist: Mariana Cardona
Location: Y65 Studio
