I have set a goal of swimming the English Channel in 2013. I believe I have given myself plenty of time to train and prepare...(I hope). I am currently heavily involved in longer distance triathlons (70.3 and Ironman distance). My "final" long triathlon will occur on November 21, 2010, at Ironman Arizona. After that, I will take some down time (30 days or so) and then begin my training for my Channel attempt. I am comfortable in the open water. My max distance is 2.4 miles at this point.
Alright, let's hear it. Advice?? Questions?? Comments?? Let me know what you are thinking!!
John
Parents
Former Member
I just booked for 2012. To get the best position I'd book ASAP. Sending a lot of money to someone you've never met to do something in 3 years that will be incredibly painful puts life in a different perspective.
I found Dover Solo very helpful, inspiring and gave me confidence that I could prepare myself to be in 58 degree water for many hours.
Personally, I set up a separate account for my swimming expenses. Budgeted up front so I knew the money was there for training and racing costs for the next 3 years (I have a number of swims planned.
I think at 3 years out Ironman training can be very helpful. It requires discipline, a high tolerance for pain and a high level of fitness. With a 2.4 mile swim at the start of a race you are ready to make the transition. While I never did the Iron distance, I had to work hard to keep my weight down. That is not a problem for OWS. (I don't know which category you are in: the I can't keep the weight off or I can't put the weight on category.)
Best of luck. One thing I found out right away was how amazingly helpful people were. Marathon swimmers are very unselfish with their time and energy, and their help has been invaluable to me. I am sure you'll find the same.
I just booked for 2012. To get the best position I'd book ASAP. Sending a lot of money to someone you've never met to do something in 3 years that will be incredibly painful puts life in a different perspective.
I found Dover Solo very helpful, inspiring and gave me confidence that I could prepare myself to be in 58 degree water for many hours.
Personally, I set up a separate account for my swimming expenses. Budgeted up front so I knew the money was there for training and racing costs for the next 3 years (I have a number of swims planned.
I think at 3 years out Ironman training can be very helpful. It requires discipline, a high tolerance for pain and a high level of fitness. With a 2.4 mile swim at the start of a race you are ready to make the transition. While I never did the Iron distance, I had to work hard to keep my weight down. That is not a problem for OWS. (I don't know which category you are in: the I can't keep the weight off or I can't put the weight on category.)
Best of luck. One thing I found out right away was how amazingly helpful people were. Marathon swimmers are very unselfish with their time and energy, and their help has been invaluable to me. I am sure you'll find the same.
