Training Would Be a Good Idea.

Training Would Be a Good Idea

By Karen Quartermain

September 15, 2020

On Tuesday 15th September I decided to start a Windermere swim. Usually I would be ready and prepared, but this time I had just decided at the weekend to give it a go. Its been a difficult year for any swims and felt like I hadn't really achieved anything for myself. With my Around Jersey Solo being deferred what really was the point?

I'm a big believer of if you say your going to do something go and do it, at least make the start. A couple of friends were staying near Fell Foot, and as soon as I told them I was going to be starting at a set time, it was game on. No backing out.

The water temperature was registering at 15.3 degrees at the start, the sky was overcast with the promise of sunshine which is what I held on to. As I jumped in, the water felt beautiful but on the fresh side and off I went. I felt really good and was so liberating to be out in the Lake, guided by hubby Dave.

My feeding plan was every 45 mins, as the water temp was cool I wanted a warm drink to look forward to. By the 2nd feed my hands were white and very painful, a condition called Raynauds that pops up and really does affect my feel of the water. I pumped my hands as I continued to swim to try and increase blood flow. It didn't work.

3 hours in and I was still struggling with my hands and the sun had not showed up. It now became a head game. At the Ferry Crossing beyond the half way marker, Dave read out a message from Gareth, "it gets warmer at the other end", 5 hours in it became true and suddenly my hands began to have some sensation again and the water warmed.

There was never any doubt in my mind that I wouldn't finish, but the cold had really affected my pace which was messing with my head. I didn't have a watch on, but I had counted my feeds and knew. As I made my way passed Bass Rock I knew 4.5km to go, the wind had picked up and was against me but I thought "just another obstacle to get passed".

I wanted a tough challenge to test myself and that is exactly what I got. I continued to count strokes, to keep my brain away from negative thoughts and before I knew it I could see the Ferry Jetty. Dave pulled forward once beyond there and I swam into Ambleside Beach. With an applause from people sat having their chips.

I took away a lot from this swim. You are stronger than you give yourself credit for at times and maybe consider training for it :)