Julie Checkoway

About the Author

Julie Checkoway is an acclaimed author and journalist whose work delves into the extraordinary tales of human resilience and triumph against the odds. With a background in narrative nonfiction, she brings meticulous research and vivid storytelling to her subjects, uncovering hidden histories that resonate with universal themes of perseverance and community. Her debut book, The Three-Year Swim Club: The Untold Story of Maui's Sugar Ditch Kids and Their Quest for Olympic Glory, chronicles the inspiring journey of a group of children from Hawaii's sugar plantations who, under the guidance of a visionary coach, trained in irrigation ditches to chase Olympic dreams during the Great Depression. Checkoway's writing has appeared in prestigious publications such as The New York Times and The Atlantic, where she explores the intersections of sports, culture, and personal ambition. A graduate of Harvard University and the Iowa Writers' Workshop, she continues to captivate readers with stories that celebrate the indomitable human spirit.