Latest Gossip and Update

Despite my best intentions to keep this blogimebob thing going I have failed badly, so I will try and make amends between now and when I swim.

Since the last entry, I have been to Gozo with SwimTrek, the first week as a swimmer and the following 2 weeks as a guide. I was not able to complete my 6 hour swim, but it wasn't strictly required as my 2008 swim was accepted as a qualifing swim for this year. The middle week was affected by the volcano ash cloud so many of the swimmers couldn't get out and the previous weeks group struggled to get home, including "The General", who was escorted through Europe by ferry and car.

The sea temperature seems to be taking it's time to warm up this year, thus extended training sessions have been limited, but I have managed to get down to Dover over both the May Bank Hols, and complete all the swims Freda has set me. The late May weekend saw me complete 2 x 3 hour swims over the weekend. Though I struggled with the cold on the 2nd swim, especially in the last hour. This was my own fault, as I stopped to watch a WW2 Spitfire doing a low flying display over the harbour, what an inspiring sight.

In between Dover trips, I have been swimming in the pool, continuing to try and improve my stroke coupled with some effort work. If I'm asked to up the pace at any point, hopefully I will be able to respond. I have also been up to the North Wales coast and have done a number of swims around Criccieth. The last swim was a 4 hour effort, which I completed without incident. The official temp was 10.7C, but with the sun out the top of the water was much warmer, almost pleasent!!

Ruth and I are busy packing and preping for our adventure in Ireland. She is looking forward to the whiskey and the holiday. I'm not sure if I should be looking forward to it or panicing and thinking of loads of novel excuses that may get some sympathy from Ned, (no, thats not going to work!!!), so I best swim hard and play hard. It's a good job Guinness is good for you!! I'm also looking forward to catching up with many of the great swimmers I have met over the years, generally though SwimTrek. There is nothing better at motivating a swimmer than swimming with like minded lunatics!!

I've had a netbook for my birthday, so I'll try and keep the blog going during the trip and report on my progress.

Until next time.

Andy