Greetings all
I'm planning to swim the Alcatraz Shark Swim in July. I'm very excited about it. I'm new to swimming but I've consistently put in 45 minute swims three or four times each week since October. I've timed my mile (please confirm 36 laps or 72 lengths) at 33 minutes. I plan to do open water swims when things warm up a bit. But in the mean time, what can I do to prepare myself in the pool? Longer swims? Should I minimize my wall push during flip turns to more closely simulate open water conditions? Once I hit the open water, what's the best way to approximate distances?
Also, I'd love to read stories of your Alcatraz swim experiences.
I don’t know of anyone who brings a spare pair of goggles in the water on swims, unless they allow personal escort crafts, which they don’t have at the Shark. One suggestion however, put your goggles on before your cap. This way if the goggles are dislodged they are very likely to remain with your head.
Also, the best way to avoid being kicked, dunked, or otherwise abused at the start is to give yourself some separation from other swimmers at the start. Either move left or right of the mass or start a little behind the main pack. If your primary goal is finish the race a few extra seconds delay at the start won’t hurt and may even help you get a rhythm established. If your goal is to win, then get the most advantageous position and prepare to battle the masses until you have pulled ahead of the field.
I don’t know of anyone who brings a spare pair of goggles in the water on swims, unless they allow personal escort crafts, which they don’t have at the Shark. One suggestion however, put your goggles on before your cap. This way if the goggles are dislodged they are very likely to remain with your head.
Also, the best way to avoid being kicked, dunked, or otherwise abused at the start is to give yourself some separation from other swimmers at the start. Either move left or right of the mass or start a little behind the main pack. If your primary goal is finish the race a few extra seconds delay at the start won’t hurt and may even help you get a rhythm established. If your goal is to win, then get the most advantageous position and prepare to battle the masses until you have pulled ahead of the field.
