Ireland Here I Come.

Following the multitude of Channel swim successes of the Ned Army Faction. I have been signed up for Ned Denison's June 2010 swim camp over in Cork by Ruth (What else could I have for a 50th birthday present!!). Having heard wonderful things about Ned and speaking to members of the faction including Big Carl Richards and Mark Hewish, as well as Ned himself at the CS&PF Dinner, it seemed to be a good idea at the time.

Having read the details of the camp, I think I've let myself in for the biggest beasting of my life and I can't wait!!

Here are a few of the more motivating quotes from the Camp details:

"Nobody should swim more than 40 hours during this 9 day period but if you can not imagine doing 25 hours then probably the Camp is not for you."

"Water temperatures are expected to range from 14 C (sea) to 17 C (fresh). No extra charge will be imposed for extra cold sea temperatures down to 11C. At that time of year the days are long in Cork and there is a chance that it will not rain."


"With luck, you will also get a call at 10pm one night to get you in the water at 3am – just to give you the most possible discomfort."

Oh Boy!

CS&PF Dinner

A fantastic night was had by all. Much gossiping and drinking took place in the wonderful Dover Town Hall. It was great to see so many old friends and make so many new ones. Thanks to everyone who were involved in the organisation, in particular to Emma and Michelle, as well as Cliff for such excellent commentary throughout the night.

The morning after saw a brave few on the beach for a 10 am dip in the sea. It was cold on the beach but, believe me, it was much colder in the water!! Estimates ranged from 4 - 6 C, I rated it as 'kin cold! However, after much umming and arring I was first in after posing for the photo opportunities. I managed a creditable 10 minutes and about 400m, and I wasn't the first out. It was so cold I didn't feel cold until I thawed out. To prove that I was indeed mad enough to get in here are a couple of piccies as evidence.

               

More news soon.

Never Say Never

Well it's now March 2010 and it's time to fire up the blog once again. This oddessey is far from over and the Channel beckons again. My tide and pilot is booked (19th - 27th July 2010, with Ali Streeter on Roco), the medical is complete and all my documentation has been accepted by the CS&PF. All that is left to do is swim (apart from some serious training!).

With regard to training, I've been somewhat limited to the pool because of the weather and work, though I'm using the pool time well with plenty of technique work. All will change soon though, as I set of to Gozo just after Easter for 3 weeks with SwimTrek. The first week as a swimmer under the guidance of Freda Streeter, Nick Adams and Mia Russell, and the following 2 weeks as a coach and guide, working with Mia and the legend (or is that leg end?) that is Cliff Golding.

I'm off to the CS&PF Dinner this weekend, so plently of motivation, gossiping and wine will be the order of the day. I'm also looking forward to my first dip in Dover harbour for the season. Hopefully I'll post a photo or 2 to prove my insanity.

More soon.