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!
First off: welcome, Andy! You're probably used to the frenzy at the start of open water if you've done triathlons, and you will certainly be in shape for it too. I'm guessing you are in Madison from your username. A good gear up swim for Big Shoulders might be the MOWS in August. Are they doing the 1.2 and 2.4-mile distances again?
Knelson's advice about just staying calm at the start is important; psychological prep for OW is really important, so try to get in as much lake swimming as possible before the event... in lots of different conditions, so you are mentally prepared to adapt. I'm in Kenosha, WI and I'm always surprised at how weird the first couple of lake swims of the season feel after being in the YMCA pool for nine months straight... it's so easy to get used to those walls and that straight black line!
First off: welcome, Andy! You're probably used to the frenzy at the start of open water if you've done triathlons, and you will certainly be in shape for it too. I'm guessing you are in Madison from your username. A good gear up swim for Big Shoulders might be the MOWS in August. Are they doing the 1.2 and 2.4-mile distances again?
Knelson's advice about just staying calm at the start is important; psychological prep for OW is really important, so try to get in as much lake swimming as possible before the event... in lots of different conditions, so you are mentally prepared to adapt. I'm in Kenosha, WI and I'm always surprised at how weird the first couple of lake swims of the season feel after being in the YMCA pool for nine months straight... it's so easy to get used to those walls and that straight black line!
