Now that summer is definitely around the corner the ocean swims have begun in earnest. I am competing in two different weekly competitions - Tuesdays at Takapuna, and Thursdays at Kohimarama. Both are only short distances, just 1500-2000m but I am competing when possible without a wetsuit and adjusting to the sea temperatures. Training inbetween is still going well, the weekly distance remains around the 30km mark, and I am really feeling in control of my stroke and pace.
The first State competition was held on 13th November and involved crossing Auckland Harbour, from Bayswater to the steps by the new drawbridge in the Viaduct Harbour. There were approximately 1400 swimmers in the water so I was pleased to finish 137th overall, 3rd in my age group and 16th of the non-wetsuit swimmers. My time was a little down on last year but as a wetsuit can take 10% off your time it wasn't too bad - it was also affected by my heading off towards the Harbour Bridge and having to be gently redirected by one of the patrol boats! No wonder I thought I had nice clear water, everyone else was heading in the other (right!) direction...
Don't envy the non wetsuit bit even as another pommie import. What's this going off course stuff?
ReplyDeleteKeep having fun.
Awesome challenge John. You must be really bulking up. Without a wet suit is an incredible feat. Wish you all the best - when will you actually cross?
ReplyDeleteWarwick