DID NOT GO TO PLAN! I knew the water was cold so thought I'd go off really quickly and warm myself up. Not a good idea... I knackered myself out and with a tight chest had to result to 2 breathe strokes - very tense and didn't relax into my stroke had to go to breast stroke to gain composure!! really didn't want to do that BUT I carried on and did finish in a time that was respectable for me if not as good as I could have done.

The last few lengths showed that I can swim in the pool as I relaxed into my stroke and made good time (still only 3 breathe strokes). Waves I think are a big deal... need to get used to them.



Started at a slower pace, not raced and got the measure of the pool - the wave generated by 38 people were surprising to me.

The important bit would be start slow, relax into a quicker stroke.

Mentally prepare myself better as well - it was a very negative swim for myself mentally - no confidence didn't think I would make it and wanted to stop - that is silly as I could have swam more when I finished it.

Surprised to see the world spinning! Sophie was funny when talking about my performance - she really cannot lie! :)

I struggled with putting my shirt on, ended up starting with it half on - this helped though as movement from jogging freed it up.

maybe put my heart rate monitor on... not try to dry my feet or hands.

difficult start, though I expected that was tight and felt like cramping up but after maybe a K things got better and I hit a good pace.

By other measurements the course was 5.2k :)

Also pleased to improve my position - overtaking 3/4 people with 1/2 overtaking my (right at the start and one I got back later :))



Nothing! Was very pleased with it, did all I could without beasting myself (there is no need and I still got under 30 mins :)).

I feel some good pace training, will help me get that down to 25 and then maybe early 20's!

sit and laugh at myself.


mental preparation for the swim - and some physical in terms of being used to the water like that. Maybe get a wet suit...


good race, short and sweet. Plenty of support and encouragement.