Since I was an age group swimmer, which was a long time ago, I've always had it in the back of my mind to swim the English Channel. Now at 45 and after a few reasonably successful open water swims the dream has resurfaced. Anyone ever taken this on? I'm tentatively putting myself on a five year plan with time during the year for both SC competition in the fall and winter and open water in the summer getting progressively more challenging. Any ideas or sugestions?
Pat,
I swam the Channel while in my 40’s, and I know a lot of others who have as well. If it is a goal, then go for it. It is well worth the challenge.
Suggestions – Try some of the domestic marathon swims as you get ready. I did Tampa Bay, Manhattan Island and Atlantic City the year before the Channel. And they all helped with my training and confidence. And make sure to get acclimated to 58 – 62 degree water. I was training in low to mid 50’s so when I get to Dover 59 -60 felt relatively comfortable and during the swim I never felt cold.
And read up, there are a number of good books about successful Channel swimmers and how they trained.
Good Luck
Pat,
I swam the Channel while in my 40’s, and I know a lot of others who have as well. If it is a goal, then go for it. It is well worth the challenge.
Suggestions – Try some of the domestic marathon swims as you get ready. I did Tampa Bay, Manhattan Island and Atlantic City the year before the Channel. And they all helped with my training and confidence. And make sure to get acclimated to 58 – 62 degree water. I was training in low to mid 50’s so when I get to Dover 59 -60 felt relatively comfortable and during the swim I never felt cold.
And read up, there are a number of good books about successful Channel swimmers and how they trained.
Good Luck
