Aquasphere Long Swim Series 2010

[KatieBun]

Entries now being taken online for this series of four 3.8k swims, 3 in lakes, one in the sea in Bournemouth.

www.votwo.co.uk

Click on Adventures and Events, then Races. Scroll down to find series information.

6th June, Box End lake swim, Bedford.
13th June, South Cerney lake swim, Gloucestershire.
8th August, Bournemouth sea swim
26th September, Dorney Lake, (Eton rowing lake).

VoTwo's organisation is impressive, with your result scrolling down a big screen in the hospitality tent about 15 minutes after you finish. Manic P and I did the Dorney one last year. (MP won.:D)

[carribeanquest]

Did the one at Box End run last year KB? Do you have any idea what time the swims will start?

[missjackiechan]

Have signed up for Bedford and Dorney. Excited! :)

[KatieBun]

Did the one at Box End run last year KB? Do you have any idea what time the swims will start?

Yes, but I only noticed the series the night before the final one so I can't give any feedback on the previous events. The one MP and I did at Dorney started at 9am, with registration opening at 7.30am.

Have signed up for Bedford and Dorney. Excited! :)

Brilliant news, MJC.:music:

[KatieBun]

Entry fee for each race is £25 but there's a discounted entry fee of £20 for entry by the end of 12th January.

[Pingu1903]

Shame they are all the wrong end of the country, would have done these. I would even have made myself do the sea one to complete the challenge.

[manic porpoise]

Gosh KB - entering so soon. I prefer to mull these things over a bit more than that.

May do the Bedford one as it's my local lake but I still remember being battered at the start of the Dorney swim by big, mean blokes.

[KatieBun]

Gosh KB - entering so soon. I prefer to mull these things over a bit more than that.

May do the Bedford one as it's my local lake but I still remember being battered at the start of the Dorney swim by big, mean blokes.

I like to take advantage of the discounted entry fees.:)
Getting used to being battered now. I intend to be a bit more aggressive myself if it happens this year.:mad: (Yes, and that will really happen.:rolleyes:)

[dampflippers]

MP- Tip from a triathlon website:

In deep water starts, don't just tread water allowing people close behind but lie on your front keeping them a bit further away while waiting for the start. (Then kick like mad)

[carribeanquest]

I'm going to sign up for the Bedford and Bournemouth ones then.

Lunch after the Bedford one, anyone?

[KatieBun]

I'm going to sign up for the Bedford and Bournemouth ones then.

Lunch after the Bedford one, anyone?
Sounds good to me, cq. MJC and I will be travelling together.

[Pandi]

I'm going to sign up for Bournemouth one then
Oh great another "grockle" clogging up the sea.:D

[carribeanquest]

Oh great another "grockle" clogging up the sea.:D

As if to prove your point, I had to do a Google define (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=define%3Agrockle&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a) search of grockle

[Pandi]

As if to prove your point, I had to do a Google define (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=define%3Agrockle&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a) search of grockle

:wave: grockle info "tother than" googlie,only "kids use goo-gull";)

'Grockles' is a pejorative term for tourists, applied especially to tourists from the Midlands or the North of England.

It was first noted in Devon during the 20th Century and has spread over time throughout the West Country, notably to Cornwall where there is a particular resentment against tourists,:wave:

From a personall point of view-"grockle" would be a "term" used for tourists-And this is also used in Lincs.seaside towns.So not confined to the south west.:speechles

[KatieBun]

Pandi, you've hi-jacked my thread, you naughty boy!

[Pandi]

Sorry your Fluffiness.At least it was an edukational hijack.:settee: :D

[carribeanquest]

Sounds good to me, cq. MJC and I will be travelling together.

Sorry to hassle you about the starting times, does it say on the info you got when you registered? I will have to get the train from London, which if registration is from 7.30am will mean a bloody early start.

Are you going to drive down that morning?

[KatieBun]

Sorry to hassle you about the starting times, does it say on the info you got when you registered? I will have to get the train from London, which if registration is from 7.30am will mean a bloody early start.

Are you going to drive down that morning?

No worries, cq. I'm only basing what I said on what we did in September this year. I think I intend to drive across on the same morning. I haven't worked it all out yet!

[KatieBun]

Sorry your Fluffiness.At least it was an edukational hijack.:settee: :D

:joker:;)

[Spidey]

Entries now being taken online for this series of four 3.8k swims, 3 in lakes, one in the sea in Bournemouth.

www.votwo.co.uk

Click on Adventures and Events, then Races. Scroll down to find series information.

6th June, Box End lake swim, Bedford.
13th June, South Cerney lake swim, Gloucestershire.
8th August, Bournemouth sea swim
26th September, Dorney Lake, (Eton rowing lake).

VoTwo's organisation is impressive, with your result scrolling down a big screen in the hospitality tent about 15 minutes after you finish. Manic P and I did the Dorney one last year. (MP won.:D)The September Dorney Lake one is not showing when I look - could it be full?

[dampflippers]

http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/contact.php

You could email them to check the start times.
Dorney Lake is still on the information page.

[dampflippers]

The September Dorney Lake one is not showing when I look - could it be full?

I have just part filled in the entry form online, and all four races are still there at £20 each, so yes, it's still available.

All the info is http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/race_view.php?v=2&c=1&i=123

[manic porpoise]

MP- Tip from a triathlon website:

In deep water starts, don't just tread water allowing people close behind but lie on your front keeping them a bit further away while waiting for the start. (Then kick like mad)

Thanks for that DF. In reality I didn't have much trouble with people on my feet as my kick is far too dangerous for others to risk getting close to.

The problem was being hit in the head. Maybe I'll wear a hard hat next time??

[Spidey]

I have just part filled in the entry form online, and all four races are still there at £20 each, so yes, it's still available.

All the info is http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/race_view.php?v=2&c=1&i=123Looking at the awards section, if you only swim one race - better than swimming three of them surely?
Points will be awarded at each swim race 1 point for a win, 2 points for 2nd, etc. Your top 3 results will be used to determine your placing. Race 4 at Dorney lake is compulsory in order to qualify for a series prize. All series prizes will be distributed at Race 4 on completion of the event. Aqua Spheres decision is final on the series points.

[KatieBun]

Looking at the awards section, if you only swim one race - better than swimming three of them surely?

Not sure I understand the reasoning behind that, Spidey!

I'm swimming 3 because I want to swim 3. I'll be in the bottom third of the results anyway. I'm doing them for fun....because I like swimming long distances in lakes. Roll on, Zurich. :D

[mad.max]

You need to swim in at least three races to qualify for a series prize, one of which needs to be the race at Dorney. If you do all four they'll take your best three positions,

[Spidey]

Not sure I understand the reasoning behind that, Spidey!

I'm swimming 3 because I want to swim 3. I'll be in the bottom third of the results anyway. I'm doing them for fun....because I like swimming long distances in lakes. Roll on, Zurich. :D

You need to swim in at least three races to qualify for a series prize, one of which needs to be the race at Dorney. If you do all four they'll take your best three positions,So if it is the one with the least points that wins overall?

[Leprechaun]

Thanks for that DF. In reality I didn't have much trouble with people on my feet as my kick is far too dangerous for others to risk getting close to.

The problem was being hit in the head. Maybe I'll wear a hard hat next time??

Hope you can fit a few of these into your busy schedule this year M-P. I dont think anyone, aside from perhaps efitz, has as much talent and ability in this sort of event. Dont worry about the crowded starts, you'll leave the rest behind!

[mad.max]

So if it is the one with the least points that wins overall?
Yep, which I know does seem a bit strange

[dampflippers]

"The start times for the swims is normally 9 or 10 am with registration open from 8am. It all depends on the venue. Final details for each event will be published well in advance."

CQ- hope this helps

[carribeanquest]

"The start times for the swims is normally 9 or 10 am with registration open from 8am. It all depends on the venue. Final details for each event will be published well in advance."

CQ- hope this helps

It does - massively - thanks df!

(Why couldn't I spot that?).

I will register this evening in order to obtain discount!

:wave:

[dampflippers]

It does - massively - thanks df!

(Why couldn't I spot that?).

I will register this evening in order to obtain discount!

:wave:

Because it was in an email!!

[manic porpoise]

I've just entered the Box End swim. I have to contemplate some more before I enter any of the others. Good company for lunch was the main motivation.

I'll have to see when the lake will be open for training - as it's useful to do some of that I've found. See you all there.

[KatieBun]

Excellent news, MP. Can you recommend somewhere pleasant for lunch?

[manic porpoise]

I don't know of anywhere at the moment but I know just the person to ask. One of my work colleagues lives nearby and also knows the owners of the lake.

[KatieBun]

Sounds good to me, MP. I'll follow your advice!

[carribeanquest]

Because it was in an email!!

:banghead:

Anyway, I have registered, with 70 minutes to spare to obtain my discount

:thumb:

See you all at Box End (MP do you mean that the same lake where the event is held is also open for training?)

:wave:

[manic porpoise]

Yes CBQ. It's not available at the moment though. They only allow it when the water warms up a bit. In theory they require four people in the lake at one time. In reality I think the rules don't get applied too rigidly as no-one really seems to watch what you are doing.

It's only about a 15 min drive from my work so I am hoping to get in more this year than I did last year. If enough people want to go at lunch I can take a long lunch break and go for a swim. Management think I'm nuts and don't try to stop me!

As a warning, when the information says there are changing rooms they mean there is one changing room that's big enough for about five people at a time if you squeeze in.

[KatieBun]

Thanks for the advance warning, MP. Obviously a Robie day!

[KatieBun]

Is anybody else doing the Cotswold Water Park swim on 13th June?

[mpfmark]

same day as Wykeham Lake sorry

[missjackiechan]

I'm on a ladies weekend in Blackpool KB...different to ours I think...staying at the Hilton and going to a spa and champagne club! (got my tu tu ready!)

[KatieBun]

No worries. Mr KB will come with me and walk the dog while I'm swimming. Then we'll go to the pub.

[manic porpoise]

I have not decided about the swim on the 13th June. Will see how I feel after the first swim as GB masters are the weekend after.

[KatieBun]

I have not decided about the swim on the 13th June. Will see how I feel after the first swim as GB masters are the weekend after.

Looking forward to watching you wipe the floor with the opposition at Box End, MP. Save some cake for me.

[manic porpoise]

I'm getting a little worried about this race now as it's not far away. My wetsuit is in my car ready for my first lake swim of the year.

It seems time to organise the important things - lunch. There are a couple of nearby pubs. I am thinking about making a reservation at one in Bromham. Not sure of the name of it but will get details from a friend at work.

Who would like to go for lunch at the pub? I will make a reservation when we have an idea of numbers. Alternatively we can have a picnic at the lake.

[KatieBun]

The ergonomics of keeping a picnic in edible condition and staying overnight the night before are beyond my little brain, MP. MJC's staying overnight too. Might we be better going to the pub?

I'm happy to stay for lunch at the pub of your choice before driving home.

[carribeanquest]

Who would like to go for lunch at the pub?

Me ! :)

[missjackiechan]

...did someone say pub!? I'm there

[Francoise]

Hi all, I'm new around here. I've foolishly signed up for the South Cerney swim and am now wondering if there will be other slow people there, or if it will be just me sluggishly making my way along after everyone else has gone home?

4k takes me about 1 hour 40 mins in the pool. I don't know how this will compare with outdoor swimming but I've heard tales of monstrous plantlife in the lake that will attempt to hinder your progress, if not trap you altogether.

Sounds terrifying :)

[e-fitz]

I'm in!! for the South Cerney swim on the 13th - hope the course is clockwise...I like to play to my strengths...(or pander to my weaknesses :cry: )

Francoise - you will be fine - the carniverous plantlife will have choked on all the wetsuits charging out in front...

[KatieBun]

I'm in the South Cerney one, too, Fitz. See you there.

[manic porpoise]

Ok - KB, MJC, CBQ and me. Will book a table next week.

Swam at Box End at lunch today. It was great although I struggled with the restrictive wetsuit. Hopefully, I can get in again next week.

[KatieBun]

Ok - KB, MJC, CBQ and me. Will book a table next week.

Swam at Box End at lunch today. It was great although I struggled with the restrictive wetsuit. Hopefully, I can get in again next week.

What was the temperature, MP? I don't want to wear a wetsuit, even if I'm 10 minutes slower.

[manic porpoise]

It was 18C today according to one of the other swimmers. About a week ago it was only 12C. Today would have been ok without a wetsuit - even for me.

Is there a temperature at which they won't allow wetsuits? I'd quite like it if they weren't allowed.

[KatieBun]

I think the cut-off temperature is 23C, MP. That was the rule at Dorney last September.

[missjackiechan]

I think the cut-off temperature is 23C, MP. That was the rule at Dorney last September.

I think Dorney was 17? In August according to organisers and I still felt cold!

I will be mega slow without a wetsuit!

[KatieBun]

Yes, it was 17C on 29th August, MJC. It was very comfortable. I'm always megaslow anyway, so people will have to accept that I'll finish 10 minutes after everybody else because I'm not wearing mine if it's 16C or above.

[manic porpoise]

What's all this megaslow business KB? I know it's not you.

Based on the Dorney swim last year you will be well ahead of lots of people even without the wetsuit.

I'm more concerned about navigating. Dorney had those underwater lane lines but we won't have those at Box End.

[manic porpoise]

Don't worry though. I'm planning on getting an industrial heater so that it's 23C and we will all be without wetsuits.

[Matron]

I've just entered the 3.8K at Dorney on 26th September. :)

I can't make the Box End and South Cerney swims though, although possibly can do the Bournemouth one on 8th August. I will think about that one.

I also found this series earlier which may interest quite a few people on here. 1.2miles or 2.4miles in the sea:
http://www.bustinskin.com/events_36131.html 20th June Weymouth Beach
http://www.bustinskin.com/events_36132.html 25th July Bowleaze Cove
http://www.bustinskin.com/events_36133.html 5th September, Ham Beach Portland Harbour.
They are advertised as having wetsuit and non-wetsuit categories.

[Peet]

Hi All,

I'm new here so hi to everyone.

I did the Cerney swim last year, it was really warm, very well organised and generally great fun.

I wouldn't worry too much about the weeds - the water is crystal clear and if you do swim across a clump just pull a little more shallow and you won't get hands full :-)

I might be doing Box End next week, so may see some of you there.

I did the first race in the OWS swim series last night - the water was much warmer than I thought - definitely worth going to if you can make the location on a Thursday eve.

Details here: http://www.openwaterswim.co.uk/
Video here if you're interested: http://www.flickr.com/photos/pgmitchell/4646706221/?processed=1&cb=1275042553993

[manic porpoise]

I'm giving serious consideration joining KB and ditching the wetsuit for the Box End swim as the water temperature is likely to be quite good. It's probably a little quicker with the wetsuit but I don't know how much I gain as I find the shoulder restriction to be quite annoying. It all depends on how cold it is on Sunday morning.

[KatieBun]

I'm giving serious consideration joining KB and ditching the wetsuit for the Box End swim as the water temperature is likely to be quite good. It's probably a little quicker with the wetsuit but I don't know how much I gain as I find the shoulder restriction to be quite annoying. It all depends on how cold it is on Sunday morning.

MP, I did 1 hr 16 without it and 1Hr 8 with it. You might go from 48 to 55 or similar but I doubt if it would be much slower.
I'm estimating 1 hr 20 ish for me, as I'm a bit stressed at the mo, with Baby Bun's finals, Young boy Bunlet's A levels and a massive de-clutter before moving. Probably not the best time to embark on a series of swims....but I'm looking forward to dinner with MJC on Saturday and lunch with all of you on Sunday. Stuff the swim time! Just swam three times round the lake in Reading, about 2.4k altogether. Most enjoyable and relaxing. Water about 19 -20C. It felt hot after Padstow last weekend.

[manic porpoise]

I do like the names Baby Bun and Young boy Bunlet. Does Young boy Bunlet know this is his online name?

Hopefully the swimming will be a chance for you to have some fun. Just avoid the mess at the start! Perhaps you should put your attention into worrying about whether you will manage lunch at the pub after eating cake at the lake. It's something I am concerned about. It helps me forget about the proposal I need to write...

I'm not sure it would be as much as 8 min for me if I go without the wetsuit. Perhaps if my wetsuit were made-to-measure then I'd notice the difference but I do find my shoulders tire and my stroke shortens. If the water is warm tomorrow I'll try to swim a lap or two with the wetsuit then try a lap or two without. Must make sure I don't put too much effort in though as I'll be worn out before Sunday.

[KatieBun]

I do like the names Baby Bun and Young boy Bunlet. Does Young boy Bunlet know this is his online name?

Hopefully the swimming will be a chance for you to have some fun. Just avoid the mess at the start! Perhaps you should put your attention into worrying about whether you will manage lunch at the pub after eating cake at the lake. It's something I am concerned about. It helps me forget about the proposal I need to write...

I'm not sure it would be as much as 8 min for me if I go without the wetsuit. Perhaps if my wetsuit were made-to-measure then I'd notice the difference but I do find my shoulders tire and my stroke shortens. If the water is warm tomorrow I'll try to swim a lap or two with the wetsuit then try a lap or two without. Must make sure I don't put too much effort in though as I'll be worn out before Sunday.

You'll be close to your time from Dorney last year then, MP. I look forward to watching you swim the first 5m....before you disappear from my view!

PS I'm sure I'll manage cake and lunch!;)

..and no, he doesn't know. I couldn't think how to show he's a boy. He does actually have a nickname from his mates so I'll use it in future. It's Tortoise Boy.

[manic porpoise]

Tortoise Boy - that's even better.

[KatieBun]

Tortoise Boy - that's even better.

He used to put so much in his school bag in secondary school that it would drag him over backwards and he couldn't get up. Hence the name.:D

[carribeanquest]

Bugger.

I was planning to get the train to Bedford and then a taxi to Box Hill.

At the time that I entered there were trains running on Sunday morning.

But now - due to engineering works - the earliest train gets into Bedford at 8.47 which does not give me enough time to get to the lake.

Are some of you staying nearby? I could come down the day before - where are you staying?

I will be disappointed if I have to pull out but I fear practicalities may be insurmountable :(

[Juicy Lucy]

Bugger.

I was planning to get the train to Bedford and then a taxi to Box Hill.

At the time that I entered there were trains running on Sunday morning.

But now - due to engineering works - the earliest train gets into Bedford at 8.47 which does not give me enough time to get to the lake.

Are some of you staying nearby? I could come down the day before - where are you staying?

I will be disappointed if I have to pull out but I fear practicalities may be insurmountable :(

Carrib, I may be able to help. Awaiting confirmation from the organisers that I can enter on the day. Thought I'd join you cold water nutters.

[manic porpoise]

Have sent you an email CBQ - was not able to log in earlier. Please see email - and I will try to send you a PM.

[carribeanquest]

Many many thanks JL and MP, I hope to make it - bloody engineering works :mad: but if not, not the end of the world.

[missjackiechan]

Carrib, I may be able to help. Awaiting confirmation from the organisers that I can enter on the day. Thought I'd join you cold water nutters.

Are you really!?? Have you got a wetsuit...or are you wearing your flourescent blue fastskin?

CQ keep us updated as I will have a car, I am going down previous day though (tomorrow) from Leeds, so not sure how this might help?

Me and KB are staying in a Travelodge - cant remember which and wont post it on here as we might have flocks of our fans descending!!

[Juicy Lucy]

Are you really!?? Have you got a wetsuit...or are you wearing your flourescent blue fastskin?


I can't get through to the organiser on his mobile. He's not answering. Need to ask if I can enter on the day, and if I can wear my bodysuit.

If I can't get through then I'll come along to support anyway. I'll be the one throwing sods at you sods!

[missjackiechan]

You can wear a bodysuit I am sure as its both wetsuits and non-wetsuits. See you there...or not...I will be the one going horribly off course!

[Juicy Lucy]

You can wear a bodysuit I am sure as its both wetsuits and non-wetsuits. See you there...or not...I will be the one going horribly off course!

Just spoken to Ben the man. He is begging me to swim! With or without bodysuit.

8.00 am registration, kids. Don't be late.

[Juicy Lucy]

Ok - KB, MJC, CBQ and me. Will book a table next week.


Hope you can squeeze me in too?

Now, about the swim... Will the water be cold - and are there any jellyfish there?

[missjackiechan]

Just spoken to Ben the man. He is begging me to swim! With or without bodysuit.

8.00 am registration, kids. Don't be late.

Oh God..please make sure yo wear it, for the sake of onlookers!

Water....I am guessing is likely to be 17 easily.

[e-fitz]

Hope you can squeeze me in too?

Now, about the swim... Will the water be cold - and are there any jellyfish there?

Hmph!

don't be such a wuss, JL....

[KatieBun]

Hmph!

don't be such a wuss, JL....

She can't help it.
(I wasn't going to mention the huge sabre-toothed, fresh water jellyfish carrying harpoon guns.)

[e-fitz]

..not to mention vicious crayfish and leeches and the greater needle toothed pike that infest these waters...

JL is gonna be lunch!!

[Peet]

I will be disappointed if I have to pull out but I fear practicalities may be insurmountable :(

I can give you a lift if you can make it to the end of the Piccadilly line (Oakwood)? Not sure where you are based as I'm new on here...I do talk a lot though....but I'm an Aussie and we are just like that - even with total strangers :-)

I too am entering on the day, they allowed this last year so should be fine. I swam in the lakes twice last week, still trying to get used to the wetsuit restrictions around my shoulders and not even sure I am ready for 3.8km but I'm going.

I did 1hr 16 last year with not enough training....fun at the time but I think I tore every single muscle in my arms and shoulders, couldn't swim for 3 months, 3 months turned into 6months...yadda yadda...think I just got carried away with the excitement of it all....

[KatieBun]

..not to mention vicious crayfish and leeches and the greater needle toothed pike that infest these waters...

JL is gonna be lunch!!

Rather her than me. Still, they only go for people wearing bodysuits or neoprene so I'm safe.:D

[Juicy Lucy]

Rather her than me. Still, they only go for people wearing bodysuits or neoprene so I'm safe.:D

I have a plan. I'm going to splash and shout a lot to keep the creatures away from me.

[carribeanquest]

I can give you a lift if you can make it to the end of the Piccadilly line (Oakwood)? Not sure where you are based as I'm new on here...I do talk a lot though....but I'm an Aussie and we are just like that - even with total strangers :-)


Peet, that is a very kind offer. I lived with two Aussies so I know about the talking!

What time do you think you need to leave Oakwood?

Cq

[Peet]

I'm not that organised - I haven't even looked yet!

Let me get back to you.....

[Peet]

Ok, so race starts at 9am, Google maps says 1hr 16 mins (presuming that's IF I stick to 70mph)......

So....at a guess if you could get to Oakwood by 7am latest? Obviously earlier would be better but I'm not sure what time the first tubes start running from where you are.

I don't need much time before the race - my warm up is getting my wetsuit on :-)

Let me know, not a problem.

[carribeanquest]

Yup, first tube doesn't get to Oakwood until 7.49 on a Sunday morning.

KB and MJC have offered to help me out, but many many thanks to you, JL, MP and all the thoughtful swimclubbers!

[Peet]

NP, just ignore my PM.

Let me know if/how you guys are planning to meet up once there so I can say hi.

I'd help you out by saying black Aquasphere wetsuit with silver cap and goggles but everyone tends to look the same so.....

Ok...I'm short - does that help? :-)

[KatieBun]

NP, just ignore my PM.

Let me know if/how you guys are planning to meet up once there so I can say hi.

I'd help you out by saying black Aquasphere wetsuit with silver cap and goggles but everyone tends to look the same so.....

Ok...I'm short - does that help? :-)
I'll help you out, then, Peet. I'm 6ft tall and will be wearing a green and black knee suit covered with turtles. No wetsuit:D

PS You'll have to wear one of their swimcaps. It will probably be orange...or pink for girlies.

[manic porpoise]

Hope you can squeeze me in too?

Now, about the swim... Will the water be cold - and are there any jellyfish there?

You're in. Well I think you are. I phoned them but it was so noisy I don't know if they really understood. Can't see there being a problem though.

Peet - you staying for lunch?

[manic porpoise]

Ok...I'm short - does that help? :-)

I'll help you out, then, Peet. I'm 6ft tall and will be wearing a green and black knee suit covered with turtles. No wetsuit:D


I'm short too - and MJC has big hair - and JL will be naked. Should be easy to spot.

Don't know what I'm wearing yet. Possibly my wetsuit but may go with an FSII.

Timed four laps today at the lake as follows:
With wetsuit: 11:20, 11:32
Without wetsuit (but with Endurance training suit): 11:54, 11:40

It looks like I'm about 30 seconds slower per 11-12 min without the wetsuit so about 2 to 3 minutes overall. It's possible the wetsuit helps when I get tired though so there could be a little more of a difference. I also think I kick harder when I'm not wearing the wetsuit so will struggle more getting out to the finish line.

[Juicy Lucy]

Let me know if/how you guys are planning to meet up once there so I can say hi.

I'd help you out by saying black Aquasphere wetsuit with silver cap and goggles but everyone tends to look the same so.....


You'll easily pick out KatieBun, MJC and Manic. Just look for common tarty types.

I'll have a sophisticated leopard print look about me. Come and say hello, Peet.

[Juicy Lucy]

JL will be naked. Should be easy to spot.


From a long distance too, so I've heard.

[KatieBun]

From a long distance too, so I've heard.

.....whilst running away.

[carribeanquest]

Right,

Thanks to the wonder that is swimclub, I was overwhelmed with offers of assisstance enabling me to swim on Sunday. So thank you so much to everyone, and curses to engineering works, particularly those put in place at short notice, for disrupting my plans.

I look forward to seeing a number of you on Sunday. For identification purposes, am not tall nor short, do not have big hair, a turtle-covered kneesuit, a body-suit, nor a birthday suit that I care to expose.

I don't know what I will wear for the swim yet either. Just look for the raucous crowd, and identification should be straightforward.

See you tomorrow, all, and thanks again!

cq

[Peet]

Great - so we have not much chance of finding each other! I'm going to go one step further with the spotting game. Games are fun!

Ill have on a white cap (non-swimming type and before we get in the water!) long dark hair, probably the word 'Sugoi' somewhere on what I am wearing and after the race I will be passed out somewhere most probably clutching either a Multipower drink bottle (blue) or recovery shake.

Gosh - I'm more interested in finding strangers on a forum than swimming - surely that's not right?!

No jellyfish and it should be warm I would think. Glad it was pointed out you kick less in a wetsuit as 1. after this mornings bike-run-bike-run session I have no legs :-( and 2. I got calf cramps last time I swam (not used to wetsuit) and then could hardly walk up the slippery ramp at the finish.

In fact, if you would like to see a photo of my oh sh*t moment I have attached it for your entertainment:

Not sure re: lunch but can someone Pm me details pls? As long as satnav can find it should be fine. Cq, take my number and call me as the results are rolling as I will have my phone on.

See you all there - hopefully!

[Juicy Lucy]

Ill have on a white cap (non-swimming type and before we get in the water!) long dark hair,

Does this mean you are a woman? I thought you were a man?

[Pandi]

Great -I have no legs.I got calf cramps last time I swam
:D:zip:

[Peet]

Does this mean you are a woman? I thought you were a man?

Lol. Yes. So sorry to disappoint you ;) But I do answer to 'Pete'!

I guess I should have thought about that.....can imagine you all looking for a guy tomorrow.......that wouldn't have helped really would it?!

Ok, so LONG hair and LONG nails and LONG eyelashes and a black wetsuit - easy! :D

.

[KatieBun]

Such a good day, even if my time was slooooooooooooooow. Thanks for the great company, all. Congratulations on a first class swim once again, MP. Brilliant swims by everybody else too. Great PB, MJC!

Lovely to meet you Peet. Join us for lunch next time?

Wonderful lunch with MP, Mr MP, MJC, CQ and JL. Champagne much appreciated, JL.
Interminable road works on the way home but bearable.

[Juicy Lucy]

Well done to KatieBun, MissJackieChan, Carribeanquest, Aussie Peet and Manic Porpoise. MP was the star of the show in producing an absolutely awesome display of swimming. The hardy-annual, KatieBun, refused to wear a wetsuit, shaming the rest of us, and MJC was so excited with her time that she was sending a text to the Forum's Mark while the water was still dripping off her.

Thank you to the girls for making me welcome in my role as a virgin to open water swimming. They introduced me to new terminology which included body glide, bag drops and weeds.

Aussie Peet prepared well by bringing along a very effective swimming aid. Her extended eyelashes were judged to have reached the finishing line 20 seconds before she did.

The after-swim meal was enjoyable too, with an American, a couple of thick Brummies and the educated all thrown together.

[KatieBun]

JL, you seemed disappointed but you did a great time. I would kill to go under an hour! Hope this isn't the end of your OW career. Well done.
Hope your introduction to weeds wasn't too much of a shock.

[Juicy Lucy]

JL, you seemed disappointed but you did a great time. I would kill to go under an hour! Hope this isn't the end of your OW career. Well done.
Hope your introduction to weeds wasn't too much of a shock.

No, I shall carry on. I was really surprised how warm it was. Just wish I could have swum in a straight line. Would like to have swum faster as well. I'll be buying a new state-of-the-art wetsuit for future events.

[missjackiechan]

Well done to KatieBun, MissJackieChan, Carribeanquest, Aussie Peet and Manic Porpoise. MP was the star of the show in producing an absolutely awesome display of swimming. The hardy-annual, KatieBun, refused to wear a wetsuit, shaming the rest of us, and MJC was so excited with her time that she was sending a text to the Forum's Mark while the water was still dripping off her.

Thank you to the girls for making me welcome in my role as a virgin to open water swimming. They introduced me to new terminology which included body glide, bag drops and weeds.

Aussie Peet prepared well by bringing along a very effective swimming aid. Her extended eyelashes were judged to have reached the finishing line 20 seconds before she did.

The after-swim meal was enjoyable too, with an American, a couple of thick Brummies and the educated all thrown together.

Nice day all and a nice meal after, well done MP on winning two awards! JL your time was ace you should stop moaning!

KatieBun was almost the only one without wetsuit, nice bright green tastful kneeskin!.... and I was actually really too warm in mine.

Brilliantly organised event...and a PB for open water 3.8k for me, wanted to be under 1.10 and did 1.05. Very happy.

Thanks for the comapny CQ and KB the night before too even if I did supply the entertainment in the hotel room by trying on wetsuits!

[manic porpoise]

I was feeling a bit rough when I got home. I'm starting to think I don't have the ability to sensibly pace myself in these races. It was better than Dorney last year (when I went utterly mad and felt like I was sprinting the whole way) but I was still suffering. After a few more glasses of water and a short nap I feel much better. It was probably a little cool for me to go without a wetsuit but I suspect I was cooking a little in the wetsuit.

Good swimming by all today. Even if we did all go for the 4K (or more) race rather than the 3.8K version. It would be interesting to video a lake swim then speed up the footage and watch the strange route taken by many of the swimmers.

That navigation thing seems to be a big problem especially for us pool swimmers. While zig zagging towards one of the buoys on my final lap I was wondering if there could be a gadget to fix this. Perhaps some clever person could invent a device that beeped when you went too far off course. Maybe two different tones - one to move left and the other to move right. GPS would be involved - along with some calibration but surely it could be done.

I don't think I will do any more in the series as I cannot make Dorney and I don't like the taste of salt water. Next week is a possibility but I won't decide yet. If my recovery is quick this week then I may consider it but with GB masters coming up it could be a bad idea.

[mpfmark]

Some awesome times by the swim clubbers sounds like a great day had by all
well done to you all especially kb without your wetty mp for winning mjc on your pb

Sounds like one for next year rather than epic who insist on wetsuits

[missjackiechan]

I have got to say, the event organisation is amazing, immediate results on a screen after the swim and now online...the same day (below). Also forgot to mention cake and tea after, fab.

http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/results.php

[KatieBun]

It was indeed excellent. So well organised and really great cake! True to his word, Ben has added "NW" after the results of the three non-wetsuited swimmers. Thank you, Ben! The other two ladies were really impressive, proper swimmers. My effort at a non- wetsuit swim is in the bottom 20! It was extremely enjoyable though. Slow, but it won't put me off doing it again.

[Highway Star]

Ooh - only just seen this and saw that South Cerney is this weekend. Its only about an hour away from me, I might well give this a bash, just need to check I'm free on Sunday. Will be good training for the 4.5 mile Brownsea swim next month and gives me an excuse not to be up at 6am on Saturday for club training!

I presume non-wetsuit is ok?

Peet - I will be at Little Marlow next Thursday for the OWS series event - I'm doing the 1500m and then possibly the 3.8km one at the one in July. Think there is a few of us going from Oxford.

[Peet]

Aussie Peet prepared well by bringing along a very effective swimming aid. Her extended eyelashes were judged to have reached the finishing line 20 seconds before she did.


Yes, but I did 'trim' them before I came so they wouldn't touch my goggle lenses so I wasn't cheating too much!

Well it was really nice to meet you all, and so sorry I didn't stay for lunch. My punishment was a tour home via North AND South Shelton - wherever that is! AND that was with Satnav! So many roundabouts and missing signs on the way home, not what you need after a long swim.

True to form I slept the afternoon away, no idea why I bomb so badly after exercise but in the end I was glad to be unconscious at home rather than eating a big meal and then sleeping on the M25 - that would not have been fun. I actually don't feel too bad today, was up at 5am running and my arms still worked so all good.

Well done to everyone, MP, I want to swim like you, that was an AMAZING time! I must say I was surprised and really happy with my time of 107.50, my aim is to get to the 60min mark though so we will just have to wait and see.

The chocolate cake after was great, if you only knew how much food means to me......

Ok, so I'm after a 5km openwater in Aug/Sept, if anyone hears of one let me know. I so wished we had another lap to go yesterday.....apart from the dizziness :speechles from constant 'spotting'. Here is a pick of what we were up against - can you see the buoys at the far end?! I think not....

3474


I have my first triathlon next week - a 400m pool swim....B-O-R-I-N-G after a fun lake swim....

Can't wait to catch up with you all at the next one!

P

[KatieBun]

Non-wetsuit is certainly OK, HS, but the non-wetsuited folk were thin on the ground yesterday!

[Highway Star]

Cool - I'm entered! Will turn up in a pair of racing jammers - it can't be that cold? :D

[Peet]

I was glad I was in a wetsuit - I had people trying to climb my back like a ladder at the start - and I started at the back! So glad they slid off.....

[Juicy Lucy]

I had people trying to climb my back... So glad they slid off.....

There are some on this forum who would see this as an exciting and stimulating attraction. I think you have ensured our next open water event will be well-attended.

Must agree on the cake afterwards. I ate as much as I could before the swimmers behind me came to the tent.

[Peet]

I will be at Little Marlow next Thursday for the OWS series event - I'm doing the 1500m and then possibly the 3.8km one at the one in July. Think there is a few of us going from Oxford.

Cool, I wil be there for the 1500m as well, silver cap, silver goggles. I'm thinking of doing the 3.8km in July as well but I will wait and see. My aim is to go faster, not get cramps in my calves and not look like an idiot getting out of the water! That's providing I survive my first triathlon on Sunday.....

Found another 3.8km series if anyone is interested:

http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/races_swim-super-series.html

.

[manic porpoise]

Thanks for posting the link Peet. Please let us know of others you find as I may want another swim at some time in the next few weeks.

[Peet]

Yeah, I don't want to wait until August for the next 3.8km so I'm now booked in for the first race in July - more practice needed, must swim faster!!!

[auntiekath]

I was at Box End on Saturday and agree how well organised the event was and what a fantastic venue

[Juicy Lucy]

Wish we'd have known. We'd have said hello.

[kookiegal]

anyone at South Cerney this Sunday?

[e-fitz]

I'll be there!!

[manic porpoise]

I seem to have recovered quite well after the last one but don't think I will go to South Cerney. However, I did enter one of the races last year at about 10pm the day before.

[KatieBun]

I remember it well! So did I. May yet see you there then, MP!

[manic porpoise]

I may well be there. Even I don't know yet.

[auntiekath]

If my daughter needs a lift to South Cerney - might well see you all

[Highway Star]

I'll be there. Weather forecast seems to have cheered up as well (19 and sunny intervals).

[kookiegal]

will be trying out the wetsuit ..........not worn one before and trying it on has been a trial so will either be very cold having decided not to wear it or still be struggling just before the race starts to get the f......g thing on

[KatieBun]

will be trying out the wetsuit ..........not worn one before and trying it on has been a trial so will either be very cold having decided not to wear it or still be struggling just before the race starts to get the f......g thing on

It didn't feel cold at Box End, Kooks. You could join the non-wetsuit mob! Ben actually puts NW next to your name in the results.;)

[kookiegal]

yer that is the plan B not to swim with the wetsuit but was going to try it out for the London Great Swim, this duck ring doesnt look like it can take the course!!!!

[Highway Star]

Legskins aren't 'non-wetsuit' apparently :(

[KatieBun]

Legskins aren't 'non-wetsuit' apparently :(

I wore a kneeskin last weekend and that was non-wetsuit!

[Highway Star]

Nope, word from the man himself (Ben). Can completely understand though, as kneeskins would be legal for events under ASA rules, whereas the legskins wouldn't. I'm sure if I chose to wear jammers or normal Speedos, they'd be non-wetsuit.

At least I get a chance to wear the legskins again given that I can't wear them in the pool.

Plus there are no prizes for non-wetsuit anyway...

[manic porpoise]

Good luck to all of you swimming tomorrow. I've decided to be sensible and rest ready for GBs next weekend. I look forward to hearing how you get on.

[KatieBun]

Very sensible, MP. After yesterday, I'm relying on pain relief and porridge to get me through today! I'm looking at about a 1hr 25, I think, realistically.

[Highway Star]

Well according to the results, I was classified as non-wetsuit. Enjoyed the swim, time wasn't too bad (52.30), would have been about 20 seconds faster had I actually been able to stand after being dragged out the water...

Good to see KB and e-fitz again.

[KatieBun]

You went home too quickly, HS. You won the non-wetsuit event. Well done. Ben has your prize.
I was even slower than last week but my excuse is my two hour channel relay qualifier yesterday. I was a bit knackered after that.

There was no way that water was 18c though. Fitz thought it was about 16, so did I. They said it was 16 at Box End and it was much warmer than today's lake.
Great to see you, HS, Mrs HS, Fitz and Kooks.

Well done, Kooks, for winning the ladies Super Vet category.

[mpfmark]

Well done kb another swim without rubber and on your qualifier yesterday
wykeham was about same a shade under 16c
poured down for the full 5km
good training I suppose
get some rest
mark ;-)

[KatieBun]

Thanks Mark.:)

On another note, the beloved OW spaniel, Jasper, who never can resist the lure of a stretch of water, decided to join in today at South Cerney.
I've sent this to VO2. They think it's hilarious.

[Leprechaun]

Thanks Mark.:)

On another note, the beloved OW spaniel, Jasper, who never can resist the lure of a stretch of water, decided to join in today at South Cerney.
I've sent this to VO2. They think it's hilarious.

Brilliant! There must be a first dog to swim Lake Zurich......:joker:

[kookiegal]

great photo of Jasper KB, still cant decide if I enjoyed the swim or not. However have been tempted to perhaps think about the one at Bournemouth even tho will have only just got back from Sweden.
Great to have met Mr KB at long last and of course Jasper

[Highway Star]

You went home too quickly, HS. You won the non-wetsuit event. Well done. Ben has your prize.


Really? I didn't realise there was a prize for non-wetsuit, oh no! :cry: I only left as my elbow was getting really stiff and I wanted to get home and get something on it.

I'll get in touch with Ben, though that means I'm going to have to do another one in the series now, just to go and pick it up. :D

Good, I'm glad I wasn't the only one who thought it wasn't 18 degrees in that lake! Was a good event though, I really enjoyed it.

[KatieBun]

Really? I didn't realise there was a prize for non-wetsuit, oh no! :cry: I only left as my elbow was getting really stiff and I wanted to get home and get something on it.

I'll get in touch with Ben, though that means I'm going to have to do another one in the series now, just to go and pick it up. :D

Good, I'm glad I wasn't the only one who thought it wasn't 18 degrees in that lake! Was a good event though, I really enjoyed it.

I think the NW category is a new thing. Well done to Ben though, for recognising it and acknowledging that it's a slower option.

I'm doing Dorney on 26th September. See you there?

[Highway Star]

Might well do Dorney, though its the week before the SER Masters at Guildford and I want to do that. If my body is getting too creaky over the summer I might give it a miss. Will see you all there if I do do it though. :)

May do Bournemouth on the 8th August though given that I've a couple of weeks either side that are free.

[KatieBun]

I'd love to do Bournemouth but I'm in Zurich for the marathon relay with Speedy G.

You're too young to be talking about being creaky, HS! Only we oldies are allowed that as an excuse! Get in that lake, boy!;)

[Peet]

Well done to you guys that did the Cerney swim - I did it last year and the water was very, very warm!

Me on the other hand, 400m pool swim in a tri on the weekend - a bit dull really compared to a 3.8km lake swim.

I'm not sure re: Bournemouth, def Dorney for me though.

KB - your list of events is getting veeeeery looooooongg............

[KatieBun]

KB - your list of events is getting veeeeery looooooongg............

Entered them all months ago. I was a bit apprehensive when I saw them all written down in one list but they're all fun so I'll still do them.
Will be good to see you at Dorney.

[kookiegal]

Peet
If you go on the ASA website and go to open water events you will see that eastern region and midland are doing open water swims 5km,3km and 1.5km which if you are ASA registered you could do?

[Peet]

Well...I would be ASA registered if I had been organised to pay to membership fees...but I can do that no problem.

I did have a look at that but I don't think I'm fast enough to compete so thought I might give it a go next year...I'll have a think about it.....

[Peet]

Ok - sorry about a quick 'hijack' of this thread but I just checked the results of previous 5km open water champ results.

There aren't many entries in my age group - does winning by default count?! Is it a matter of you have to be in it to win it and just aim to swim faster next year and have a benchmark to compare to?

So if I'm not used to a wetsuit (hate it), swim 107-108 with ws for a 3.8km, anyone guess what time for a 5km without ws? I wouldn't even think about it unless I'm sure I will be faster than the cut-off time!

I could be convinced ;-)

[GettingFaster]

Peet, it most certainly DOES count - it's the only way I've ever won a medal, and I'm very proud of the odd Bronze (third out of three) and silver (second out of two) medals that I've won. And just as proud of the virtual wooden spoons, of which I have many, many more.

[Matron]

I love the Jasper picture KB! Does he get a prize at all?

I am doing the votwo 3.8K at Dorney on 26th September. In case others are interested in entering other events at Dorney I have also entered a 3K there on 4th September (The Human Race) and 3.8K Big South Swim on 21st August (F3 events). Good picnic spot!

[KatieBun]

Ok - sorry about a quick 'hijack' of this thread but I just checked the results of previous 5km open water champ results.

There aren't many entries in my age group - does winning by default count?! Is it a matter of you have to be in it to win it and just aim to swim faster next year and have a benchmark to compare to?

So if I'm not used to a wetsuit (hate it), swim 107-108 with ws for a 3.8km, anyone guess what time for a 5km without ws? I wouldn't even think about it unless I'm sure I will be faster than the cut-off time!

I could be convinced ;-)

1hr 30 to 1hr 40, Peet, without a wetsuit. You'll probably be closer to 1hr 30.
Just as a comparison, my time for 3.8k with wetsuit is 1hr 8, without it, the best I've done is 1hr 15.

[Peet]

1hr 30 to 1hr 40, Peet, without a wetsuit. You'll probably be closer to 1hr 30.
Just as a comparison, my time for 3.8k with wetsuit is 1hr 8, without it, the best I've done is 1hr 15.

Thanks, a great help. I think the cut-off is 2.5hrs so there's a bonus.

Coach says ok if I want to for some fun and extra training, I'll have a think about it....lakes are colder the more north you go as well one would expect?

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!! Chill factor must be taken into account!

[e-fitz]

Well according to the results, I was classified as non-wetsuit. Enjoyed the swim, time wasn't too bad (52.30), would have been about 20 seconds faster had I actually been able to stand after being dragged out the water...

Good to see KB and e-fitz again.

A very well organised and friendly meet...I enjoyed it..

great too to meet up with KB, Mr KB, Highway Star (oops, sorry for my momentary lapse in recognition), and Kooks...even though I was at a loss to know who you were when we were chatting..(thanks KB for putting me straight)

If I had known how close I was to HS, I might have put some effort in ;) but there is always next time...

[manic porpoise]

If I had known how close I was to HS, I might have put some effort in ;) but there is always next time...

Shame on you! :p

Congratulations to everyone else though - good swimming.

[Highway Star]

If I had known how close I was to HS, I might have put some effort in ;) but there is always next time...

:p

You should've known how close you were on the first lap, you were touching my feet swimming around the buoys! :D ;)

I found swimming straight the hardest part, I always seemed to be about 15m inside everyone else and then zig-zagged everywhere and took all the buoys too tightly. The motorboat even had to come and nudge me back on course on the third lap, like some sort of aquatic sheepdog. :rolleyes: I needed that spaniel swimming alongside me by the look of it.

Roughly how much colder is the sea at the moment than that lake? I've got almost double that distance to go at Brownsea in 5 weeks time. Hopefully the sea temperature will rise a bit by then. If it was say 17 in the lake, will the sea in late July be about the same?

[carribeanquest]

Hopefully the sea temperature will rise a bit by then. If it was say 17 in the lake, will the sea in late July be about the same?

When I did Brownsea in 2008 (I think it was first week in September that year) the water was 16. A bloke I spoke to at the first Aquasphere event who lifeguards on the beach in Bournemouth told me that he thought that the sea in Bournemouth is colder at the moment this year than it was at this this time last year. (Last year when I did the BHF Pier-to-Pier it was 18 that day.)

So from this I think you can surmise that it will probably be colder than 17 :eek:

[KatieBun]

I think that lake was closer to 16, HS.

The sea may be as low as 14 to 15 if it gets churned up. It depends on the weather in the days before the swim.
It certainly won't be warm, anyway. Prepare to shiver and take your woolly hat for afterwards!:shocking:

[Highway Star]

Thanks CQ, KB.

{prays for an unprecedented hot spell}

[KatieBun]

Thanks CQ, KB.

{prays for an unprecedented hot spell}

You coped with the lake, HS, and that was more like 16C. It's not going to be more than a max of 2C less than that. You'll be faster in the sea anyway and, for some reason, it doesn't feel as cold as fresh water at low temperatures.

[Peet]

I'm tempted too, being an Aussie I'm quite partial to saltwater - but unfortunately NOT cold water!!!

[Highway Star]

Anyone else down at Bournemouth this morning?

Nice swim, not too much current and the (rather large) jellies kept themselves to themselves.

From a purely selfish perspective, a bit of a shame that there were no prizes for non-wetsuits, after they'd given them out at the previous round...

[kookiegal]

would love to have done it HS but only got in at 1am from Sweden althought there was talk onthe plane of me attempting to go down to the south coast at 5.30am Sunday morning so much easier doing these things in your mind!!!!
obviously didnt make it tho....oh well maybe Dorney on the 26th?

[auntiekath]

Daughter did Bournemouth but as she had lost her wetsuit at the Nokia Thames Swim last weekend she had to do the swim without a wetsuit. She felt that she swam quite alot slower without the wetsuit than with one.

[Highway Star]

Not surprising that wetsuit is faster, the guys at my club who've done both wetsuit and non-wetsuit races in the same lake in similar conditions reckon its worth about 4 minutes or so over 3.8k.

[Matron]

I'm doing the Dorney race on 26th Sept.
I was thinking about doing the Bournemouth one yesterday, but swam the IOW Sandown to Shanklin pier to pier swim instead at noon yesterday. Highly recommended - it was a FAB day! More so given that it was a gloriously sunny day and the water was calm. It was very well organised and definitely one to put in next year's diary. Was pleased with my own swim too, the tide helped us to all fly along. :)

[amy77]

I've just entered the Dorney race on 26th September. I'm not very good, but it's more of a personal challenge really. I did the 3.65km Nokia Thames swim in 1 hr 19 so I am expecting about 1hr25 ish for this one. I like having events to aim for - it keeps me motivated to carry on swimming.

[Juicy Lucy]

I might be doing Box End next week, so may see some of you there.


These swimmers were there, Peet, as you now know. Just received the photo. It was a good day out.

[missjackiechan]

Oiy this is THE WORST photo ever taken of me! I had just swam and done a PB so I blame that on the way I look drunk.

[KatieBun]

What the hell is that turtle doing there?:aarrgghh:

[Spidey]

Down where may I ask?

[BIGBrian]

What the hell is that turtle doing there?:aarrgghh:

Breaststroke?

Oh...THAT turtle!

[KatieBun]

Breaststroke?

Oh...THAT turtle!
Are you mocking my turtles, Brian?

[BIGBrian]

Are you mocking my turtles, Brian?

Go on....I bet you've given them all names, haven't you? :D

[Dunc]

Turtle?
I think JL will find that quite insulting, especially as herim was trying to cover it up.

[Juicy Lucy]

Turtle?


Yes, turtle... and NO, you can't have the job of retrieving KatieBun's turtle.

Go find a tortoise of your own!





.

[Peet]

These swimmers were there, Peet, as you now know. Just received the photo. It was a good day out.

Did I take the photo? Either that or I was sensibly hiding somewhere ;)

What I remember most about this swim is the first 2 laps I wondered what the hell I was doing there, the 3rd lap I sprinted and wished there was a 4th -AND the discussion on how far we ACTUALLY swam given that the buoys were so far away...I have a pic of them somewhere, there were some crazy swim lines going on for sure.

[Peet]

Here are some pics....

[Peet]

Now let's play a game, who can see the buoys at the other end of the lake when standing on land?

That leads me to the next question - who thinks it was easy to see the buoys when you were swimming?! :confused: My neck was sore and I was dizzy from having to look so often, I almost made myself sea (lake?) - sick!

[Juicy Lucy]

I'm with you on this, Peet. On the first lap I headed for the buoy and could see everyone else going off course. After a while, I realised I was heading for the wrong buoy (cutting across the middle of the lake!!) and everyone else was taking the correct line.






.

[Peet]

So here's a simplified yet artistic view of the swim lines as I saw it.

If you were clever and fast...and smart, you took the yellow line, followed the waterski slalom markers and then out and around the buoys when you got closer. You still swam further than if you swam in a straight line, but at least you had some guidance.

Then you have my line in purple, trying to be clever, not realising the lake was an odd shape and just generally being cr*p at swimming in a straight line :banghead:

[Peet]

I'm with you on this, Peet. On the first lap I headed for the buoy and could see everyone else going off course. After a while, I realised I was heading for the wrong buoy (cutting across the middle of the lake!!) and everyone else was taking the correct line


Funny, me too, I was convinced that I was right and everyone else was wrong! The only company I had on the outskirts of the lake was a family of ducks!!

[Juicy Lucy]

Funny, me too, I was convinced that I was right and everyone else was wrong! The only company I had on the outskirts of the lake was a family of ducks!!

Me too. I thought I would win it because everyone else was swimming off course.

I had the company of weeds. It was so shallow in places.





.

[Peet]

Well I'm just hoping that it means my PB is rather conservative and that when I swim ONLY 3.8km this year it will be in a much faster time :)

BTW, your avatar has rendered me speechless on a Tuesday afternoon :eek:

[Juicy Lucy]

BTW, your avatar has rendered me speechless on a Tuesday afternoon :eek:

What! An Aussie speechless? There's a first.






.

[Peet]

What! An Aussie speechless? There's a first.


Fair point you have there....



.

[KatieBun]

The 2011 series is open for entries. Very well organised and you don't have to wear a wetsuit!
http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/race_view.php?i=157

RNLI are the sponsors this year.

(I'm doing Bournemouth and Dorney so far, and possibly another if anybody's interested in going. There's a fifth venue to be announced.)

[carribeanquest]

Hi KB I am thinking about entering Dorney (non-wetsuit), just pondering it at the moment. Is anyone else from swimclub in?

[KatieBun]

I don't know about anybody else from here, cq, but I'll keep you company, nonwetsuit.

Have you got a nonwetsuit avatar yet, cq?

[carribeanquest]

Erm, I do have one that I used to use on FB.

Rummages around the internet

ETA: I thought I had but it doesn't seem to have changed it. Hmm.

ETA2: Ah, there you go! I was editing the profile picture not the avatar.

NB not planning to swim the 3.8km as backstroke.

[Peet]

I'd like to do Bournemouth but I'd need a lift as I suck at the long drives.

Anyone live herts way give me a shout. I did the Cerney swim in 2009 and really liked it, 3 laps shaped like an M and perfectly glassy.

P.

[Pandi]

The Bournemouth swim is my weekend off.Willing to pop down and meet and greet,offer help to swim-clubbers (wet suited or non wetties) with some choccie treats after swim.:wave:

[manic porpoise]

choccie treats after swim.:wave:

I'm in. Now what is the swim I'm supposed to be doing?

[KatieBun]

The Bournemouth swim is my weekend off.Willing to pop down and meet and greet,offer help to swim-clubbers (wet suited or non wetties) with some choccie treats after swim.:wave:

Ooh, choccy! But why aren't you swimming it, Pandi?

I'm in. Now what is the swim I'm supposed to be doing?

3.8k, mp, but aren't you bringing the sweet tea?;)

[manic porpoise]

3.8k, mp, but aren't you bringing the sweet tea?;)

Of course. And the hot ribena.

[KatieBun]

Of course. And the hot ribena.

Excellent. I shall expect to see you in a kayak then, shall I, doling it out to me on a regular basis, oh super-efficient buddy? ;)

[manic porpoise]

Ooh yeah. I like the idea of doing the kayaking thing. You may have to rescue me occasionally by turning the kayak the right way up when I capsize though. I can only roll it when I've planned to capsize which isn't very useful.

[missjackiechan]

I've entered Bournemouth but it will depend if both my arms work by then and also it is a bit of a "trek" for me!

[MadHighroller]

I'd like to do one or two of these.... if I get through The Hampton Court one first.....

Possibly - Bournemouth and Dorney (sept) These ae the RNLI ones right ?

[KatieBun]

Yes, and run extremely efficiently by VO2. That's good news, MHR. Hope to see you at Bournemouth and Dorney!

[Pandi]

I've entered Bournemouth but it will depend if both my arms work by then and also it is a bit of a "trek" for me!
Ickle sis,go for it.:)

I'd like to do one or two of these.... if I get through The Hampton Court one first.....

Possibly - Bournemouth and Dorney (sept) These ae the RNLI ones right ?
Bournemouth MHR,you know want to.:idea:

Yes, and run extremely efficiently by VO2. That's good news, MHR. Hope to see you at Bournemouth
Looking foreward to meeting up.Post or Pm,favourite CHOC choice.:)

[KatieBun]

Pandi, if you're going to be a pal and bring chocolate, I don't mind what sort it is! Will be great to meet up.