Post-swim update: 9th August 2009
Well, we managed to survive the swim without being attacked by sharks, stung by jellyfish, run over by jet skis, or swept away across to the island of Portland to be cooked alive in large hotpots and devoured by the hungry inhabitants!
It turned out to be a superb day that was made all the more enjoyable for having near perfect swimming conditions - a clear blue sky, wall-to-wall sunshine and, most importantly of all, no strong currents or waves to contend with.
The mass beach start was a slightly daunting prospect - with the thought of 536 pairs of legs and arms frantically flying everywhere, but once we were in the water and had settled into the rhythm of the swim things became much more civilised and relaxed.
Naviagating a direct line across the bay proved to be the hardest part of the challenge because at water level it was very difficult to see the small cluster of red flags one mile away at the finish on the opposite side of the bay.
However, despite a bit of 'slalom swimming' early on we both eventually managed to find our way across to the beach at Greenhill and record some pretty respectable times - with me finishing in just over 35 minutes, and Lucy not far behind in around 37.45.
Thanks again to everyone who supported us - raising money for a worthwhile cause like the British Heart Foundation really helped us to keep training!
So, perhaps somewhat foolishly, we’ve decided to take to the chilly British waters for the British Heart Foundation’s annual swim.
Yes, we’re going to be swapping the familiarity of our running shoes and sunglasses for wetsuits and goggles to take part in the one-mile open water swim, which starts at Weymouth Pavillion and finishes on the opposite side of the bay near Greenhill.
Lucy has been unable to run for the last 12 months due to a very annoying Achilles tendon injury. However, despite the long lay-off, she’s been working hard to maintain her fitness with regular gym sessions, cycling, and swimming.
The swim takes place on Sunday 9 August, and we’re currently seeking sponsorship for the BHF. Thank you very much for your kind donation – we’ll let everyone know how we get on!
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As a change from the usual training, racing, training, racing cycle, earlier this year we decided that it was high time that we did something a little bit different and more of a challenge.
