Local Guinness World Record Holder Aims for Esports Olympics

In the heart of Bakersfield, a remarkable individual has been making waves in the world of gaming and fitness. Carrie Swidecki, a dedicated teacher, has set multiple Guinness World Records in dance games, inspiring countless individuals with her journey from obesity to becoming a multi-world record holder.

From Obesity to World Records

Carrie Swidecki’s transformation is nothing short of extraordinary. Once struggling with obesity, she embarked on a 16-year journey that has seen her lose 75 pounds and drop 10 dress sizes. Her weight loss was largely driven by her passion for exergaming, a form of exercise that combines physical activity with video games.

Swidecki’s achievements in exergaming are impressive. She holds 11 marathon world records and over 400 high score world records in dance games. One of her most notable records was set in 2013 when she played Just Dance for 49 hours, 3 minutes, and 22 seconds, earning her the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon on a motion-sensing dance game and a dance/rhythm game.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Swidecki’s impact extends beyond her personal records. She has been using her passion for exergaming in the classroom for the past seven years to help children adopt healthier lifestyles. Her programs have not only promoted physical education but also raised awareness about fighting childhood obesity through fun and engaging methods.

“I love being able to use my world records to bring awareness to fighting childhood obesity with exergaming and raising money for charity,” Swidecki said. Her efforts have helped raise $85,000 for charity through various events and programs.

The Aspiration for Esports Olympics

As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) considers incorporating esports into the Olympic Games, Swidecki sees an exciting opportunity. The IOC has been exploring esports for about six years, with a focus on games that align with Olympic values, particularly avoiding violent content.

Games like NBA2K23, Gran Turismo 7, and Street Fighter 6 have been featured in Olympic Esports Week, which attracted over 130 players and garnered six million views. While popular titles like League of Legends and Overwatch are excluded due to their violent content, Swidecki’s expertise in dance games could make her a strong candidate for future esports events.

Overcoming Challenges

The inclusion of esports in the Olympics is not without its challenges. The IOC must balance the need to attract a younger demographic with the necessity of adhering to its values. Swidecki’s experience in non-violent, physically engaging games makes her a prime example of how esports can align with Olympic principles.

Mark Deppe, esports director at UC Irvine, highlights the delicate balance the IOC faces. “It’s a delicate balance,” he admitted. “The Olympics won’t be on their radars unless they play the games the Olympics choose.” However, Deppe also sees the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership between the Olympic movement and video games, similar to how alternative sports like surfing and skateboarding have been integrated.

Community and Impact

Swidecki’s achievements are not just personal; they are community-driven. She emphasizes that her world records are “truly community world records,” reflecting the support and participation of her students, colleagues, and the broader community.

Her induction into the International Video Game Hall of Fame in 2018 further solidifies her impact on the gaming community. Swidecki believes that her journey can inspire young girls to pursue extraordinary things in gaming, opening doors for the next generation of female gamers.

Future Prospects

As the IOC continues to explore the inclusion of esports, Swidecki remains hopeful. Her unique blend of physical fitness and gaming expertise makes her an ideal candidate for future Olympic esports events. Whether through her records, her teaching, or her charitable work, Carrie Swidecki is a beacon of inspiration, showing how gaming can be a powerful tool for health, education, and community engagement.

With her passion and dedication, Swidecki is ready to take her next step – potentially onto the global stage of the Esports Olympics. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of exergaming and the boundless potential of combining technology with physical activity.