Hi all,
I just joined USMS and have committed to doing my first open water swim (1 mile) in two weeks! I'm way out of practice and have just recently gotten back into it. I've been swimming just about every day, but it takes me nearly an hour to swim a mile at the pool.
Am I in over my head?!??! Should I be this nervous and scared? I've been told I can do it, but I worry that I can't!? Right now, my goal is to finish...? Haha. Is that reasonable?
Any tips from you seasoned (or not!) open water swimmers would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you thank you and happy swimming!
Parents
Former Member
If you do get in trouble, you will be told ways to flag the escort boat - wave your cap, or holler - and you'll get a ride back to shore.
Pay attention to the safety briefing. This is not the kind of fun that is worth dying for - but what is? If you need to grab an escort kayak, talk to the boater first, and approach from the bow. Hug the bow to your chest and bring one or both legs up alongside or even hook you heels on the deck.
You may be surprised that some of the kayakers may not be lifeguards, swimmers or even experienced, like some of the swimmers. Open water is about self reliance. Just keep your cool, keep on swimming and you'll do fine.
If you do get in trouble, you will be told ways to flag the escort boat - wave your cap, or holler - and you'll get a ride back to shore.
Pay attention to the safety briefing. This is not the kind of fun that is worth dying for - but what is? If you need to grab an escort kayak, talk to the boater first, and approach from the bow. Hug the bow to your chest and bring one or both legs up alongside or even hook you heels on the deck.
You may be surprised that some of the kayakers may not be lifeguards, swimmers or even experienced, like some of the swimmers. Open water is about self reliance. Just keep your cool, keep on swimming and you'll do fine.
