https://community.usms.org/swimming/f/open-water-training-and-technique/24164/1st-open-water-eventSunday was my first open water swim. I was definately fit enough to take on my a one mile swim, 26 mile bike and 6.2 mile run in kingston on the Hudson river. For the past 4 months I have been training hard first 2 months one mile swims 2 to 3 times aen-USTelligent Community 12https://community.usms.org/thread/260705?ContentTypeID=1Mon, 21 Jul 2003 06:42:12 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:dea8304d-fe03-4691-a063-c48829523ecaFormer MemberTried the long beach biathlon, only 300 yard ocean swim, but did it after a 3 mile run. Direction improved, know I need to work on having the same stroke in ocean as in the pool. Will keep at it.<div style="clear:both;"></div>https://community.usms.org/thread/260680?ContentTypeID=1Fri, 18 Jul 2003 09:26:58 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:bce7bab9-4209-4abf-8ddd-59cb4f9c9101Former MemberIt sounds like you definitely did the appropriate amount of pool swimming to be able to swim a mile comfortably. I think what you have discovered is the traditional &quot;first open water swim revelation&quot; which is that unless you have done all your pool swimming against/with a current/tide in a pool with a broken heater with all your lanemates swimming on top of you and your EYES CLOSED you might not be quite prepared for the open water. The good news is that now you know what to expect, and chances are that you&#39;ll improve your navigating skills each time you get out into the water. The key is repeated exposure to the variables which characterize open water swimming, so the more you can get into a body of water that is not chlorinated, the better. You&#39;ll learn to spot a destination and how often to look up, etc. Good Luck! P.S. I think I have had a similar run-in with a relative of your obnoxious kayaker myself-doesn&#39;t that just make your day to hear from the peanut gallery?<div style="clear:both;"></div>