I was one of those that did not finish the swim .. I had a severe asthma attack about 200m out, which I do contribute to the cold temperature of the water. I have not had an attack like that in 10 years, and I have not had a swim that cold in 10 years, so I assume the two are linked.

However I did not find the event very organized at all .. it started late, set-up was still occuring after the race started, there was lots of confusion in transition prior to the race about the course changes and how many laps we were required to do, and I found the maps to be difficult to read. As well, I had to slowly doggie paddle my way back to shore fighting to breath, as I could not find a rescue boat anywhere (and I was the middle of the pack when I had the attack) and I agree with you - that was NOT a 750m swim. I could just be bitter about my having to DNF, but I heard these same comments from others as well.

I was curious before hand about why I didn't see any familiar faces setting up as I usually run into all the same suspects at these things .. now I know it's because of the water temp - people that come back to do it the next year always opt for the du.