Hi! My name is Andy. I'm new here. I've lurked a little, and it looks like you all are really nice, helpful folks. Looking forward to interacting with you!
I started this thread for a couple of reasons:
First, to find out if there is anyone else on this board who is doing either the 2.5K or the 5K in this year's Big Shoulders in Chicago on 9/8.
Second, if anyone has ever done that race, to find out what it was like, and to ask if there are any pieces of advice to share. This will be my first time in that race, and actually my first open water swim other than a tri.
Finally, to ask if there are any training plans anyone can recommend to me.
Also, is there a thread anywhere on this board on which folks introduce themselves?
Thanks!
Welcome Andy! I'm signed up. I've done the race many times and it's always lots of fun. Are you doing the 2.5K or the 5K? My advice is to get to the beach early. There will be long lines to check in. As far as the race, just relax. They divide the swimmers up into several waves, so each wave isn't huge but there will be some jostling at the start. My advice is to keep calm. Resist the temptation to sprint to establish your own space. After a couple hundred meters the swimmers will spread out.
As far as training, there's a workout forum dedicated to open water swimming you might want to check out:
Open Water Workouts - by Mallory Mead - U.S. Masters Swimming Discussion Forums
Welcome Andy! I'm signed up. I've done the race many times and it's always lots of fun. Are you doing the 2.5K or the 5K? My advice is to get to the beach early. There will be long lines to check in. As far as the race, just relax. They divide the swimmers up into several waves, so each wave isn't huge but there will be some jostling at the start. My advice is to keep calm. Resist the temptation to sprint to establish your own space. After a couple hundred meters the swimmers will spread out.
As far as training, there's a workout forum dedicated to open water swimming you might want to check out:
Open Water Workouts - by Mallory Mead - U.S. Masters Swimming Discussion Forums
