American freediver Claire Paris set a new world record in the Constant Weight with Fins (CWT) Women Masters M2 category at the 2026 CMAS World Championship Freediving Depth in Roatan, Honduras. Paris achieved a depth of 63 meters, surpassing the previous record of 62 meters. The dive took place on August 18 at the Roatan Freediving School & Training Center, West Bay Beach, Roatan.

Constant Weight with Fins (CWT) is a discipline in freediving where athletes descend and ascend using only their fins, without pulling on the rope or changing their ballast. The Masters M2 category is for women aged 50 and above, showcasing the sport's inclusivity and the remarkable abilities of older athletes. The World Underwater Federation (CMAS) governs this sport, ensuring standardized rules and safety protocols across international competitions.

The 2026 CMAS World Championship Freediving Depth, held from August 14 to 27, is the premier event in the freediving calendar, attracting top athletes from around the globe. Roatan, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, provided an ideal setting for this world-class competition. The event is a testament to the growing popularity and professionalism of freediving as a competitive sport.

Claire Paris shared her thoughts on the achievement: 'This dive was very important to me. It was my first dive at my first Depth World Championship. Depth freediving connects me deeply with the ocean, and in the CWT discipline, I dive with a monofin flowing through the water ‘the whale way’.' She also highlighted the significance of the location and date, tying her personal journey and advocacy for ocean conservation to her athletic pursuits.

Paris emphasized the broader implications of her record: 'As an ocean scientist, I hope this CMAS M2 World Record will help bring awareness of the importance of understanding and protecting our ocean and its marine life.' Her dedication to both sport and environmental advocacy underscores the multifaceted impact of her achievement.