Calm seas, cold feet and a dash to rotters

We had seven show for a dim light entry into the very calm sea at mid tide going out. dim as there were clouds above (that did managed to clear as the morning wore on). The talk of the need of two hats and new wetsuits was interupted slightly as Joan just dived straight in, still no wetsuit and certainly leading the bravery stakes. The water is a little colder now so two hats are advised if you are in there for more than 30 mins or so, but i'll leave that one up to you. Without the buoys it felt more like an open wilderness. and the very calm waters meant that as you turned to breathe you can see the boats on the horizon as you cut through the water. something I could never get bored of. and then looking down we were treated to a visible sea bed. It was a lovely dash up to Rottingdean with us trying catch up minus 1 where the dea is to hold the lead arm outstretched until the recovering arm pierces the water (level with the elbow of the outstretched arm at which point the lead arm begins the propulsion phase). The aim was to slow down, relax the stroke and feel like you are going faster with less effort and a fewer number of strokes. Holding that lead arm out turns you into a longer slimmer vessel through the water, and this will increase your speed much like a long thin rowing boat. We regrouped and then headed back to saltdean for tea and post swim banter. James acted as support crew walking the distance and watching from the undercliff walkway. Little or no current. No wind.
(Written by Ollie)

Time: In 7:10, Out 8:05.
Swimmers: Ollie, Paul W, Paul C, Sara, Lawrence, Pete, Joan