We were ferried in two groups in to the small sandy cove just below Cromwell's Castle which was to be the starting point for our first open water adventure. On Friday we had to seize the day as the weather was perfect for the crossing between Tresco and Bryher and fresh winds had been forecasted for the weekend ahead. Prior to this, we had sessions in the heated pool where our coaches - swimming legend Kerri-anne Payne and Jonathan Cowie (ice swimmer and contributing editor to Outdoor Swimmer magazine ) - had observed each of our strokes, explaining and showing us on video what needed to be fixed to improve efficiency. Now was the time to put these adjustments into action.
Seven intrepid, or maybe slightly nervous, swimmers gathered on the tiny beach below Cromwell's Castle ready for their first inter-island crossing. Personally, I'd had butterflies and adrenalin rushing about my body for the best part of the day by the time we gathered for our watery adventure at 4pm. As you know, I'm no stranger to sea swimming, but group swimming seems to increase the tension of the event.
And we're off!
Mid channel is flat calm, but truly dark water beneath which can be unnerving for some swimmers who aren't used to sea swimming. We held together as a group and that really helped.
We swam behind Hangman's Island on Bryher, hugging the coastline, but the long thongs of seaweed were so thick we could barely traverse them. I couldn't help laughing out loud at the slippery progress I made - neither swimming nor paddling!
And this is the triumphant beam of Sacha (not my daughter Sasha) after her channel crossing - what a joy!
For some of the group, their challenge was to cross to Anneka's Quay and as you can see they were all thrilled with their success.
My own challenge was to complete the swim at Church Quay. Two swimmers and our two coaches welcome me in with applause as I stagger onto the steps. The real battle had been the final stretch of water between both of the quays which was being hit by the tidal wash. At points it was shallow enough to wade which was what we did at for a moment or two to ease the strain. Somehow if your coach is wading it seems okay for you to do the same.
The course ran from Wednesday to Monday, so you can bet I've got more photos to show you but I'll keep those for another day. Suffice to say that I've been in my element, not just learning from the double world champion and silver medal Olympian that is Kerri-anne Payne, but also for spending time with other water babies, all keen to improve their swimming style and efficiency. I'm pleased to say that I've cracked some of my issues, but still need to refine my stroke. I'll be signing up for another course with Triscape next year that's for sure!
Anna x
WOW! Congratulations on your accomplishment, Anna! I'm rooting for you!
ReplyDeleteCheers Sheila. The retreat has left me fired up for more adventures x
DeleteAmazing Anna; well done,Great fun xx
ReplyDeleteThanks for that x
DeleteWell done. Those jumbo portion were well earned! Tessa x
ReplyDeleteWe'd all worked up a great appetite after that swim - the food tasted delicious!x
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