For Brian Shea, the ocean is more than a backdrop—it’s the foundation of a lifelong passion and a central force in nearly everything he does. As the founder of Jersey Shore Masters (JSM), Shea has created a thriving community of open-water swimmers who gather regularly along the coast of Monmouth County to train, compete and connect through a shared love of the sea.
Born and raised in Point Pleasant Beach, Shea has always identified as a “beach kid.” Surfing, swimming and spending long days by the ocean were all part of his childhood, but it was swimming—especially in the open water—that would become his calling.
“I started surfing before I was out of grammar school,” Shea says. “As I got older and more competitive in swimming, running, and triathlon, I always gravitated toward open-water racing rather than competing in the pool.”
His personal journey in endurance sports took off as a teenager, where he excelled in triathlon and long-distance swimming. After college, Shea continued to race at a high-level including a 2hr49min New York City Marathon and 9hr31min Ironman Triathlon, qualifying him for the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii. During this period, he relocated to Monmouth County, only to find a gap in the local fitness landscape.
“There was a real need for a ‘masters’ swim program—something for post-collegiate swimmers,” he explains. “It began with a few friends in a single lane, then two, three, four lanes. Eventually, we needed an entire pool and multiple time slots to accommodate everyone.”
That modest start has since evolved into Jersey Shore Masters, a six-day-a-week indoor training program based in Asbury Park, supplemented by open-water swims in Long Branch from June through September.
“We’re in the ocean no less than three times per week during the summer,” Shea says. “It’s become a cornerstone of what we do.”
Long Branch, in particular, plays a vital role in JSM’s success. With its central location, beautiful beaches and welcoming community, it’s proven the ideal spot for hosting regular ocean swims and the annual Long Branch Ocean Swim Race, scheduled this year for Aug. 3, 2025.
“Some of the best surfers and watermen I knew growing up were based around Long Branch,” Shea says. “When I moved to Monmouth County, it became clear this would be a perfect home for our group swims. The town has embraced us. Beyond the beach itself, there’s great food, activities, and so much for friends and families to enjoy while swimmers are training.”
As with any ocean-based activity, unpredictability is part of the experience. For Shea, the biggest challenge in organizing group swims and races is the ever-changing mood of Mother Nature.
“The three variables we always have to account for are surf, wind and weather,” he says. “Safety is our number one priority. That’s why we work with a rotation of Long Branch Ocean Rescue guards—some of the best out there. When you’re introducing people to open-water swimming, having staff who aren’t just good, but exceptional, is absolutely essential.”
Shea emphasizes that JSM welcomes all experience levels—from first-time ocean swimmers to high-level collegiate athletes.
“Our goal is to offer something for everyone, no matter where they are on their swimming journey,” he says.
While Shea is quick to credit his team and community partners, his leadership and commitment have been instrumental in building a safe, inclusive space where ocean lovers can challenge themselves and grow.
Although he plays a supporting role in the well-known Surfing for Vision camp, organized by fellow local Dave Kawut, Shea’s eagerness to volunteer highlights his broader commitment to ocean accessibility.
Looking ahead, Shea hopes Jersey Shore Masters and the Long Branch Ocean Swim will continue to inspire people to embrace open-water swimming and form deeper connections to the ocean.
“The open-water community is growing, not just here, but all over the world,” he says. “I hope what we’re doing in Long Branch helps more people discover what’s possible. There’s a place for everyone in this community.”
Meet Coach Brian Shea
Brian Shea brings a wealth of experience in endurance sports as an athlete, coach, and consultant. He is the Founder & Head Coach of Jersey Shore Masters and has spent over 35 years competing in everything from 5Ks to ultra-marathon swims, long-distance runs, and Ironman triathlons.
A decorated competitor, Shea has raced and won triathlons in the U.S. and abroad, with multiple Ironman finishes—including the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii. His personal bests include:
• 5K – 15:54
• Marathon – 2:49
• Ironman – 9:31
Most recently, he’s earned seven Top-10 finishes at the 9-mile Swim for Alligator Light in Islamorada, Florida, and podiumed (1st, 2nd & 3rd) at the U.S. Lifesaving Association National Championships.
As a certified coach, Shea has developed training and sports nutrition programs for athletes at every level—from beginners to professionals.
For those interested in diving in, Shea encourages newcomers and seasoned swimmers alike to join a training session or attend the Long Branch Ocean Swim Race this August.
Learn More:
Website: jsmswim.com
Email: brian@jsmswim.com
Facebook: @JSMswim
Instagram: @jerseyshoremasters