End of Year Reports

Dave

Dave’s new job and relocation in the latter part of the year was a great loss to the group, especially in terms of encouraging longer swims.  He and Sara completed the Brownsea Island swim and he was instrumental in organising the pre-Dart training ‘camp’ in Rottingdean, providing the feed station (AKA “Dave’s Dinghy”) to enable refuelling part way through the 6.5km endeavour.  Always supportive, a great team player, we just wish we had seen more of him and hope he keeps in touch.

End of year grade: Bronze (upgraded from Little Dipper due to completion of endurance swims)

Outstanding Achievement of the Year: Mamouth 10km swim of the Dart in 3 hours, surpassing all expectations (even his own)

Sara

A doctor’s note keeps Sara at a Bronze this year, but her late start to the swim ‘season’ (we don’t have one of these in Saltdean, if you hadn’t noticed) was more than made up for by her focussed training to return to fitness.  She reached competition level and maintained a steady stream of swimming events over the Summer, culminating with completion of the Dart 10km.  We look forward to her being given the OK to lose the wetsuit once again and to a 2014 filled with more PBs.

End of year grade: Bronze

Special Mention: Provider of home-made honey sandwiches

Ollie

Pressures of work and impending new parenthood impacted on Ollie’s appearances at the beach during 2013, but in the early part of the year he added an early morning run to the swimming in preparation for Brighton marathon.  An impressive performance at his first marathon and some treasured memories of team SSF’s marathon training in the dark and on the pebbles.  He still hasn’t put up the hook he promised on the groyne wall for hanging up his work clothes.

End of year grade: Silver

Special award (from Polly) for the best shepherd’s pie in the world

Alex

Our adventurous Portuguese Man O’ War made many solo swims this year but we missed his presence in the SSF posse when he was on work placements.  Not as fast as in previous years maybe, but certainly still a strong swimmer and leader in the water in Ollie’s absence on some of the longer swims.  During the year provided a range of excellent post-swim cakes as well as informal physio advice to many of the group.  Hopefully his impending new arrival will not take him away from us too much in the forthcoming year.

End of year grade: Silver (made up with solo ‘homework’ swims)

Still holder of the 50 shades of grey Abs of steel award (apparently, according to those ladies that notice this sort of thing... ;-))

Pete

You would have thought that training for his first Ironman triathlon would have distracted Pete from his commitments to SSF but nothing can deter this man!  Coming back from illness over last Winter, he launched into a gruelling race programme which left him looking very much as if he had the weight of the world on his shoulders.  However, after the Forestman was ‘out of the way’, something did seem to lift and he seemed to start to really enjoy the water, something which will only improve his swimming (as will breathing bilaterally, but we won’t go on AGAIN about that).

End of year grade: Silver

Honourable Mention: Flying the SSF Flag when others faltered, oh, and the Fish Crate

Joan

No improvement possible for our Queen of the sea in terms of water-skills, but, spurred on no doubt by the marathon efforts of others in the group, she has steadily improved her running over 2012.  Maybe this will be the Olympic Legacy?  Never late for class, despite residing temporarily in Newhaven while her house was renovated, she has dispensed wisdom and laughs in equal measure.  And fish.  She also came up trumps when she came into possession of a beach hut key, thus allowing SSF to move into their Winter HQ.

End of year grade: Silver (only because there was no snow this Winter)

Special Award: Lifetime services to swimming and Saltdean Archetecture (Can’t think how the Queen missed her off the new years honours list)

Stefan

This year saw a first from Stefan – a day when he stated he could not swim because he was, “not dressed for it”!  Our very own Herbalife representative, he spent much of 2012 globe-trotting but always returned to SSF to provide lifeguarding support when most required. 

End of year grade: Wader

King Canute Award for wading to Anita Jones’ Locker

Anita

A Summer visitor to the SSF shores, but seeing her run down the road to the beach in her wetsuit is always a welcome sight.  Latter part of the year blighted by injury and so she was able to retire from the cooling waters with some dignity.  Hopefully a return to form next year as she is one of our strongest and fastest swimmers and a good asset for those more challenging swims, keeping Ollie and Alex on their toes.

End of year grade: Little Dipper

Duvet award for consistent lateness

Emma

Emma ties with Cat for most improved swimmer, but she definitely wins hands down any contest in terms of learning to love the ocean.  2012 has seen Emma go from a tentative paddler to a confident all weather swimmer.  A great addition to the group (and she often brings cake!).

End of year grade: Silver

Joint winner of most improved swimmer award

Cat

2012 also a good year for Cat although she has had frequent absences from the sea she did do make up classes at Weirwood.  She has improved not only her swimming, but also her biking, and has added real triathlon medals to her trophy cabinet.

End of year grade: Little Dipper

Joint winner of most improved swimmer award

Paul

Paul’s contribution to local seaswimming now reaches beyond the Deans, all the way to the bright lights of Brighton (& Hove) as he was voted onto the committee of Brighton Swimming Club this year.  Work timings have led him to take more swims with Brighton this year than with us but we lay first claim to him.  A few bad experiences early in 2012 made Paul a nervous swimmer this year but he gets kudos for getting back in the water.  Hopefully 2013 will be a better year and we will see a return to form.

End of Year Grade: Silver

Special mention for committee work

Teresa

Always favouring the more temperate climes, Teresa has been an infrequent visitor this year, but she fulfilled her contractual obligations to organise the second SSF Handicap race.  Always fast, always good company, we just wish she would harden up a bit so we could see her all year round!

End of year grade: Little Dipper

Sharon

Another tropical water specialist, Sharon made a few swims with us in preparation for Ironman New York, and proved that working hard in the pool can translate to some very good performances in open water.  We look forward to hosting an appropriate SSF hen do for her next year.

End of year grade: Little Dipper

Alison
Made just two appearances this year, both in the warmest week of the year.  A true tropical specialist, she prefers the Red Sea to our green one. However, she did also attend regularly at Weirwood and a few away dips at Seaford.  She needs to shake off any worries about the cold and work with a bit more vigour, that way, she won't feel it so much.  She also needs to embrace the waves and not worry too much about being upended and dumped on the beach!
End of Year grade: Little Dipper

Jon

A rare sight this year due to inherent reluctance to enter cold water, and then a serious cycling accident, although some off-piste swims with Swim Trek in the Lake District had begun his conversion to being an open water lover.  I predict a 2013 full of swimming success as he uses the water to rehabilitate his broken leg and ligament damage.

End of year grade: Wader

Hildi

A spectacular DNF at the Dart 10km marks this year out for Hildi.  Cold water acclimatisation and a year’s training not being enough to counter-act 3 weeks of stress, lack of sleep and sudden weight loss.  However, full marks to her for being brave enough to attempt the swim without wetsuit.  Despite the impact of Jon’s accident on family life, she has been able to keep up attendance sufficient to maintain her claim on a silver award.

End of year grade: Silver

Recipient of the Jet-Ski award for hyperthermia and recklessness

Other honourable mentions:

Paul W – fast performances and valued training partner  (and on-line race entry provider) of Sara

Helen – Gutsy winter performance in cold December seas

James – the Young Persons ‘Gung Ho’ award

Barry – Support and reassuring emergency service presence

Clive – the most elusive award

Domino – 50^th birthday party providing a hilarious opportunity for SSFs to dress up!

The Hooley and the Wavy - xmas eve swim

Joan opened up shop at 10 sharp and was joined by Hildi, Jon, Elsie & Pete. Hildi struggling with a large black box and Pete sporting portable Christmas tunes.  All had seasonal fare of some sort and Hildi promised a warming beverage for afters.  However - after what?  The tide was pretty high and white horses abounded.  After careful observation and measurement of wave height and estimation of undertow forces, it was decided that beach borne exfoliation was the order of the day.  Hildi and Joan were first "in", joined shortly by Pete who, feeling that the girls were being a bit timid, plunged in a bit further, only to be spat out again amid a hail of foam and pebbles.

All sat enjoying the sucking sensation as the water receded and the anticipation of the next dose of who knows what.  The water had certainly warmed a bit today - estimate about 8-9 degrees. Enough having been had, all scrambled back up the beach for a swift change, mercifully shake free and refreshments with all the usual and mulled wine and hot chocolate accompanied by poor covers of popular Christmas tunes courtesy of a free download.  Postprandial entertainment was provided by all in the form of  a rousing rendition of "Deck the Halls",  accompanied by Hildi on accordion (that's what was in the black box), Elsie doing her best to hold up the music.  The music faltered due to Elsie the moving music stand and Hildi's sausage fingers. Quality was made up for with bags of quantity and a fine time had by all.

Frolickers: Joan, Hildi, Pete

Watchers: Jon. Elsie

Singers: All

Happy Christmas to Platinum, Gold, Silver, Little Dippers and Water Waders alike.

End of the World Swim

A ladies only day today.  Hildi arrived for a rare early morning swim to find Joan opening up Winter HQ.  What luxury!  Both coat and winter yoda had hooks to hang from.  We swapped and signed cards and were sooned joined by Emma and Sarah.  More cards and Xmas offerings (Emma's still secret from Sarah who is being a good girl and waiting until Xmas day to open hers), honey sandwiches from Sarah and Xmas flapjacks from Hildi.
 
We could hear the surf so we knew a swim might not be possible and indeed, as we ventured towards the water we could see that the tide was a little far out for any widths and the strong waves were breaking just at the dip, making entry and exit difficult.  Sarah, wetsuited, ventured in brave and regardless, while the 'naked' ladies paddled and danced and frolicked in the surf, with just a few seagull impressions.
 
A beautiful sunrise and strange quality of light for the shortest day of the year, and a 17 cormorant fly past - perhaps in honour of our newest member, baby Jasper, arrived on Monday 17th?

2012 Swimmers' Bike Ride

A very strange and disparate crew assembled in Highdown Road for the 2012 edition of the ride.
Looking at the photo - not an SSF regular among them.

The only recent bather in the briney was in fact on the other side of the lens.  It's nice to see that SSF fame has spread so far that just about everyone wants to be involved.  Apart that is from those who are about to give birth, living the high life in Scotland or allegedly working in the 'States.  Apologies also from Alex, Emma and Annika. No one needed saving today so no Stefan either.  Joan should have been there for mince pies but the demons of the web had maliciously scrubbed Pete's address from the bottom of an email and so she had to make do with (yet more leftovers?).

The weather was fine and a wonderful brisk bike ride was in the offing.  That is until...

2km into the ride when Domino punctured and almost simultaneously Alison broke another chain.
This led to speculation about the only other person present when this odd combination of events occurred before - on the Cycletta - yes Cat (now "the Albatross") Page!

We decided that Cat should now ride firmly ahead of the group and take her hex with her.

The rest of the ride proceeded without further mishap, the lanes grungy but all agreed, better than we expected to find them.  At the end, Teresa declared that 20 miles had been covered (about 30km in real money) and so we all repaired to an open fire, ginger snaps and mince pies washed down with lashings of mulled wine.  A better event than last year in that three were no fallers.


Riders: Teresa, Barry, Cat. Domino, Alison, Pete

Time out: 10.15
Time in: 12.13
Temp: 8 degrees
Distance: 300 widths (don't worry Hildi, it doesn't count!)

SPF zero anyone?

No amount of wishful thinking could dispel the hard fact that it was DARK this morning!

You know that you are in for a chilly one when there is frost on the seaweed covering the beach.

Joan was abed nursing a dodgy tummy - too many leftovers from Sunday perhaps, but the group was declared a quorum and comprised Ollie, Sara, Emma & Pete.

Sorry Hildi but there was enough water in the tub for a hard won width apiece except for Sara who wetsuited, went for deeper water in a search for croissants.

The sea was languid with lovely rolling waves having a frequency of about 0.1Hz.  Ordinarily, a sea for frolicking but today it was job done and back to the serious race against the shakes on the beach.
Sara's boots refused to budge and was helped by Ollie but when Ollie declared that he had done his trunks up with a double knot and asked for help, his pleas fell on deaf ears.

All were treated to a majestic sunrise which just got better and better, tea hastily poured into cups and downed before too much was spilt over finger saving gloves.  No lingering today, no water temperature measurement either but guesses were around 6-7 degrees and about zero in the air.
The only compensations being that the tide was high enough for easy entry, saving the freezing trudge to find water and there wasn't an icy breeze.  Perhaps we'll have those next week.

Award clarification - Gold award should hold if it snows within an hour of the swim.
Can Ollie ratify this?

Swimmers: Sara, Ollie, Emma, Pete

Sea: lazy rollers

Temp:  ccccccold

Getting into the Xmas spirit

Joan had invited the SSF swimmers to a Christmas drinks/buffet and housewarming.  We knew we would be in for a culinary treat - How would we be able to do the feast justice?  A 'pre-Joan' dip of course!  And it was a perfect day for it.  Ice-crisp and bright.  High tide, so those who are in the Winter widths competition were able to add to their total.

Swimmers, wetsuited: Paul W, Helen, James
Swimmers, non-wetsuited: Pete, Alex, Emma, Hildi and a late addition, Paul C.
Watchers (not an exhaustive list): Jon, Teresas (both), Anya, Polly, Ben and Elsie, Lara and friends and family (plus dog), Vicki, Alison... plus the people in the cafe
Emergency Services presence: Barry and Stefan
Widths: Pete 2.5, Hildi 4, Emma 2??

A lovely day and a lovely spread at Joan's - thank you Joan.  And what a beautiful house (the highlight of Polly's day!)

The joy of Hutz

It was a rare treat today, Ollie & Pete huddled on the prom after a bracing run to the marina & back, met by Joan who possessed a special key

Joined by Emma, Joan led us to a portal and behold, another world!  We stripped off with alacrity and raced each other down into the all embracing warmth of the ocean.

Amazing what an ice cream head can do to rational thoughts.  The real world was brought into sharp focus by near icy seaweed  wrapping its fronds around our legs as Ollie did his now familiar impression of a six year old girl confronted by a spider.  Ollie, you promised not to yelp and whinny today!

By way of compensation, widths were officially on and Pete was proud to retreat with a brace.  That was until Emma delayed her exit and slipped in a sneaky extra half width.  Far less fuss from Joan who swam around serenely with a still bleating Ollie in tow.

Approx ten minutes were managed and all agreed that it was no longer "about the swimming" and yet we still do it.  Perhaps the kick of waving to the commuters lined on the cliff edge watching and wondering which department of the council to contact, or perhaps the fun of sharing something different and the buzz gained for the rest of the day.  No, the real reason is that Joan now has use of a beach hut for the winter.  Yippee!  No more icy gales up your yodas or standing in puddles - carpet, real carpet.

Thank you Saint Joan

Swimmers: Ollie, Joan, Emma, Pete

In:  7:15
out:7:25

Sea - Torpid
Temps    air: 5 and sea: 7

Dive Dive Dive!

We're talking temperature here.

What a difference a couple of weeks makes.

Although the air temperature has been balmy, the sea is more seasonal.
Last time Pete swam, surf frolicking was the order of the day - today, the water
was smooth, inviting and COLD!

Joining up on the beach this morning were Sara, Joan, Emma and Ollie, all relishing the start of the real winter season.  Widths were on offer for those taking part in the competition.  Rules reminder, each groyne must be touched
( unless by consent it would result in extreme exfoliation).  Half widths allowed.

On entering the water, the "naked" swimmer first notices the freezing of the feet and then the delicious lick around the nether regions, followed by pain creeping into hands as fingers drag the surface of the water.
Enough of that, plunge in for a full ice cream head.

All of this is a temporary inconvenience because after a single width, a pleasant numbness sets in.  Width two sees the onset of the "rosy glow" and a nice feeling of euphoria.  Width three and you just want to stay in, which is of course when you must get out pronto!

For some, rapid changing is the order of the day and that cup of tea poured before the shakes set in.
By consent, this was a lovely swim, enhanced by the rising of a blood red sun over the water as we swam.
Magical.

Finally the tradition of temperature measurement - confirmed today as 9 degrees - I guess we won't see double figures now for 4 months!

In: 7.15
Out: 7.30
Sea conditions: oily in a nice way
Temp: 9 degrees

Swimmers: Ollie, Sara, Joan, Emma, Pete

Friday 26 October: in which the girls notch up some Secret Laps

Joan, Emma and Hildi plus Paul C met on a dark beach and noted a drop in air temperature. Although Pete has decreed the winter laps challenge to be a Wednesday activity, the tide and conditions were perfect to notch up a few more. Joan agreeing to verify.  I think Paul had been bribed by Pete to prevent any ladies taking an early lead, however, and he did a good job of trying to persuade us it was too chilly and we should simply enjoy the view and eat cake.

But once in it was extremely nice. Joan took a reading of 11.5 degrees and it was just the air temperature if 8 which made us cold.  Joan 4 laps, Emma 5 and a half, Hildi 8. In 7:17, out 7:48.  Winter yodas out in force.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Paul c, Hildi 

Over sleepers: Alex

Water temp: 11.5

Air temp: 8

Cake: lime and coconut

Wednesday 24 October

The first of the winter widths contest.  Hildi able to be there thanks to Uncle Andrew and an INSET day at Longhill.  Pete: 6, Hildi and Emma: 4 each, Joan: 2?  Paul - not sure.  Sara?

Can't remember who was there, sorry.  I's been a long half term, even for me who's been off sick for most of it.

Hildi

Trouserflapping good! 17-10-12

The trudge through the tunnel in the morning is usually an accurate indicator of what awaits on the beach and this morning Pete was battling, fish box in tow, down the small incline against all the demons of the underworld.

Another empty beach greeted with bits of weed and the odd startled flounder whizzing past at head height.  With no Joan, Pete began what now must be done.  In order to appease the sea demons, someone has to do the penance of running widths.  Fortunately, after number two, tall and small figures morphed into Joan and Ollie who had been waiting under shelter for someone to turn up.  Numbers were shortly swelled by Stefan who when asked if he was going in protested that he was "not dressed" for it.  How can Stefan ever be "not dressed" for swimming, unless he was undressed which this morning, he most certainly wasn't. Paul arrived shortly after and  the group was completed by Sara who proceeded to natter at such length with Ollie that Pete declared that he was stripping off and going in and that he would see the others later.

The water was reached as usual now by successive widths run across the sand, each width getting into deeper water until swimming had to be achieved.  Fortunately, the tide was very low otherwise the waves would have made it impossible to get in.  Pete swam gamely for France but ended up nearer to Hastings, the current was back.  Eventually all mustered in the surf except for Ollie who was "only running" on account of a tiny insect bite on his ankle.  He felt that he didn't want to risk infection (in the sea?) Anyway, Sara, Paul, Pete & Joan swam whilst Stefan took pictures.  Situation normal.  the waves were about 1m high and low frequency which made it quite swimmable.  Sara shot off and completed 1.5 widths before Pete arrived at the far end, they then "dared" each other to do 50 strokes due south. Unfortunately, Pete ended up swimming twice as hard since Sara was counting half stokes (Or was Pete counting double strokes?).

Back to the beach and the fun of dressing under airborne yodas was entertaining to watch.

Swimmers' bike ride confirmed as Dec 9th and all looking forward to the grand opening of Joan's beach residence on the 2nd.

Swimmers:  Joan, Paul, Sara, Pete

Runners: Ollie

Lifesavers: Stefan

Water temp:  Damn - forgot

Sea: Howling Yodas

Diving and inflatable toys

It has been awhile since my words graced these pages, and likewise my presence on Saltdean beach - good to see that the blog has continued as has the group.

A cold but calm October morning, temperatures dropping, Winter on its way. Difficult to believe that we all headed off for our Marina swim last year. I wonder if that would be possible again right now?

Joan was first on the beach, running widths - some things never change. Then myself, then Pete, Sara, Domino and Emma. Leader Ollie not present today.

We all seemed to take an age to get prepared, muttering about the cold although sea conditions were close to perfect, so not much doing in the excuse department. It was Pete who provided the theme for the day - testing his swimsafe inflatable device. Looked like an interesting type of gadget, but surely a real drag for any seasoned sea swimmer.

So, in we went, the plan being to swim as many widths as possible, which was fine by me. I completed the first two promptly with Pete following close behind. It was then I got to have a go at the SwimSafe gadget whilst Pete went off to do some diving off the groyne, maybe his last chance of the year. Anyway, the SwimSafe was a revelation to me, simple and unobtrusive and yet a real confidence boost in deep water. I must get one. Anyway, Pete happily dived from the groyne having carefully negotiated his way onto it in the face of swirling waves. The others continued to swim widths unabated and after around 30 minutes we all called it a morning.

The usual ritual of cakes and tea then off home/work/etc.

Swimmers: Pete, Paul, Joan, Sara, Emma
Time In: 7am
Time Out: 7:30am
Sea Temp: 12C
Conditions: Calm and almost perfect

David says goodbye!

It was David's farewell swim this morning with myself, Sara and Joan there to serenade him. The weather, unfortunately, was some of the worst I had seen for quite some time. Heavy southerly winds provoking the sea into anger though the low tide did mean it would be possible to take a swim.

I undressed very gingerly, a big part of me wishing that I had been the only person on the beach so that I could withdraw discretely whilst telling tales of weaving between monster waves etc. (without actually having to do so). Who was going to be first in? Unusually it was me today.

The real problem was the undertow which was probably one of the strongest I had ever experienced. Really vicious, always threatening to snatch you out to sea. For that reason I stayed as close to the shore as I could, without being smashed by the breaking waves. We bobbed around for a bit, Sara and David deciding to swim a width and, for a few sickening moments, disappearing from view. I am still not sure what the health and safety procedures are?

Anyway, about 15 minutes of this and we called it a morning. Had some cake, exchanged hugs and sent David on his way to sunnier climes.

Swimmers: Joan, Sara, David and Paul
Time In: 7am
Time Out: 7:20am
Conditions: Stormy

The birthday bash - and award definitions

well, three birthdays to note, Hildi last week, ollie this week and Pete on Saturday.  We all congratulated each other and missed sara who normally provides limericical (new word?) flavour.  What can I say, the sea was rough.  The winds and the rain the night before was the writing on the wall.  I dashed down there in the dium light to find pete in the carpark also.  We marched to the beach with the fish bucket in tow - ring ring!.  The sea had retreated and a quick check n the charts said low tide 7:45.  We had beeter get in there quick to avoid being completely marooned on a sand bank  300 metres out.  Our good intentions were dashed a little though and rightly so, we gassed for about 10 mins and got the full race report from the epic river Dart challenge, something Shackleton would no doubt have been proud of!  After discussing temperatures we all confirmed the sea has definitely turned.  Its heading downwards for sure, 16 the last time I got in, and now I'm assured much less.  Winter is creeping towrds us.  After changing and a showing of THE winter yoda, jealousy all round, we started running widths of the beach puttingoff the inevitable.  but in we went.  crashing through the rollers, and the temp not too bad.  The sea slushy, and at teh winds mercy, with huge barrel like grey clouds looming above.  the rain was coming the wind preceeded it.  You can imagine spray, large waves, lots of white water and all of us failing to sight effectivley in teh conditions.  We managed a width or two agains tthe strong current and retired to birthday treats, chocolate cookies and lemon cakes all homemade how good are we.  Joan took the official temp reading, ...13 degs.  And she assures me this is correct because she had her glasses on ;-)

So on my reckoning we are looking at approx single digits by end of October.  Its going to be a brutal winter I can feel it, I had better man up.

Official club ratings were agreed upon during changing and tea drinking:  these will be issued at the end of the year...

definitions:
'Swim' - a reasonable attempt at a swim (at least 10 strokes)
'Snow' - a decent visible covering of snow or snow flakes falling whilst on the beach.

Water Wader: Paddled, spectated, waded throughout the year.

Little dipper: Swam with SSF during the year on and off. At least once.

Bronze:  Swam at least once in all twelve months of the year with wetsuit or half on half off.

Silver: Same as Bronze but all non wetsuit.

Gold: rather weather dependent, but same as Silver with at least one 'snow' swim.

Platinum: We were going to say gold but without gloves, but I think this is not really going to have legs.  My preference would be to say we will leave out the platinum, unless people want it to be the same as gold but with at least one skinny dip?  Or moonlit swim? or both?

Lifetime Services to Swimming award: well, there is only one contender for this one....

Currently we have a few gold contenders in our ranks, I need to check to see if there is a silver, there are many little dippers out there and a couple of waders...

Reference point 26-09-12

Wind & rain lashing the bedroom window at 3am, 4am and still at 5am.  What happened to Yahoo?
Yahoo always gives good weather - thunderstorms were mentioned but not the wind.  Sara rang with apologies sometime around 6am but high hopes were held for the other SSFrs.

Going through the tunnel, Pete was greeted by the depressing but impressive view of  full screen white water with howling gale to back it up.

Disappointment was compounded upon arrival at the beach to find no-one else there.  Hoping for a bit of rough & tumble with Alex or at least a paddle with Joan, Pete was all alone and had to make do with a bit of beachcombing and tidying up.

So, at least we now have a reference point - when it's like this, we don't go in OK?

Swimmers: - None
Beachcombers: Pete
Sea conditions - Blimey

SSF Sunrise Handicap Chase

Well done to all swimmers and helpers.  The Sunrise Handicap Chase was definitely in need of a sunrise as we gathered on a cold beach with packed bags harbouring goodies.

Firstly, a big thank you to Teresa for organising and both teresa and Sara for providing the prizes.

Quietly eyeing up the field, people went about their business, some opting for the 30 sec penalty from wearing a wetsuit, as we attempted the race briefing.  In the end Teresa took control and gave a route.  Leave from the start line mid-beach, out to pike, lost bouy, on to a misplaced devils elbow, back to shoulder, then turn sharp left and a trip round pike before rounding off the swim with a final kick to shore.  The time was now, handicap times expertly calculated and a starting order ably assembled by the official timekeeper Barry.

Countdown to start suddenly upon us, Emma first to go, 3, 2, 1...GO!!!!  With cheers and whooping she dashed in to the crashing waves whilst the others swung arms, jumped on the spot and tried to keep warm.  Conditions were 'excitable' perhaps favouring the brave a little.  Next off was Pete who hurtled down the beach like a march hare, with a target in Emma to chase.  With Emma already half way to pike Sara set off, the long distance water weasel, going short course for a change, no doubt the course wouldn't be long enough for her.  Another 30 seconds later, the hoff ran down the beach and got a bit whacked by a wave but soon got on his way.  The four in there keeping a nice line as Emma rounded Pike.

sharon next, 3 mins down with a spot-prize-winning gentle tip-toe across the pebbles and entry into the water.  Another 30 secs go by and ollie and Alex go off together, hitting the waters edge together.  another minute behind, Teresa would go, but I was focussed on trying to gain a slim advantage on Alex and catching the next swimmer. 

I can only do the race report from my viewpoint, but as I rounded Pike I saw some splashing up ahead.  I had gained on Sharon and as we passed the lost buoy I was alongside the wetsuitless Dave.  Looking over my shoulder Sharon and Alex were very close behind.  Reaching the far turning point at the elbow I met Pete, well into his stroke and gliding nicely.  So the group was tightly packed at the half way stage with Sara and Emma sill some distance ahead.  Sighting the shoulder was a challenge in the big waves that carried us back to shore.  Had to start lengthening the stroke as the arms were beginning to tighten.  Then Teresa went past, flew past!, on her way to a victory surely.  I went round shoulder and turned left towards pike.  Noticing emma going back to shoulder, I assumed she had taken a wrong turn (!) and was going back to avoid a DQ - good sport!  I knew teresa was ahead of me and Sara, could I catch sara?  I kicked at Pike still seeing Alex just over my shoulder.  I managed to drop him but Sara was too quick.  I saw the buoys on the beach with two swimmers sat down beside them.  The waves weren't so bad on exit and I ran up the beach to take third finisher.  turned around to watch a thrilling finale.  Alex over the line next, then Sharon came in with an ironman crawl and roll over the line stopping the watch.  Next to come in were Emma, Dave and Pete.  emma having caught Dave and expertly drafted him all the way in using the tow to finish before Pete.  What a race, with Teresa successfully defending her title, one to watch next year!

Usual afters took place, everyone tucking into cake whilst Sharon and Sara went for another swim - see I told you she would.  Lovely morning.

Official Handicap chase results (including handicap and 30 sec wetsuit penalty:

. Teresa (wetsuit): 9:47          1st Female

2. Ollie: 11:22                         1st male

3. Alex: 11:55                          2nd male

4. Sara (wetsuit): 13:10           2nd Female

5. Sharon (wetsuit): 13:49        3rd Female

6. Dave: 14:49                         3rd male

7. Pete (wetsuit): 17:24

7. Emma: 17:33

race positions (order out of the water):

1. Teresa

2. Sara

3. Ollie

4. alex

5. Sharon

6. Dave

7. Emma

8. Pete

actual time elapsed for each swim from starting gun:

1. Teresa (wetsuit): 13:47

2. Sara (wetsuit): 14:40

3. Ollie: 14:52

4. Alex: 15:25

5. Sharon (wetsuit): 16:19

6. Dave: 17:19

7. Emma: 17:33

8. Pete (wetsuit): 17:54

spot Prizes:

champion Timekeeper: Barry

Longest swim: Emma

Most entertaining entry and finshing chute: Sharon

Last man out:  Pete

4 bithrday celebration

On a strange day where all the wednesday crew announced they  were unable to make the Friday we had reports coming through that 4 people did gather on Friday 31st August - and they were all celebrating birthdays!!  Not a limerick in sight, oh thsi has been a tough year.

I understand Emma, Alex, Anita and Sharon went for a swim and all congratulated each other on being another year on the planet!  with cake of course.

Friends

Writing this a long time after I intended to, it is going to be tainted by subsequent events.

The sort of sea that looks flattish but we now know isn't going to be.  The lost buoy had re positioned itself into the centre so there was a proposal for a PB attempt of a circuit of the buoys but Ollie suggested some alternate speed/easy sections between the buoys, 'Use what you've got', he said - or, as Hildi called it, 'Swimmer's fartlek'.

Ollie, Alex and Sarah all in - Hildi taking longer as been wimping out in warmer climes - but it was 17.5 or 18 degrees so not cold.  Out to the buoys for the speed work and practice with waves.  Then we spotted Mr Chapman (really sorry but his name has escaped me) getting in in his wetsuit so we headed in for some widths and to support/coach him.  Joan on an appreciated life guard duty.

Lots of fun really and about 45 mins swimming.

While I was swimming, I was thinking - why did we all come in to be with Andy (that's it - knew I'd remember!)?  Because sea swimmers, and to a certain extent, triathletes, know we rely on each other.  Later that morning - while I was still draining sea water out of my ears and before I'd got properly dressed - I got the call every spouse of a cyclist dreads - my husband had been hit by a car.

Horrible day but he's going to be OK eventually and everyone has rallied round.  Those times when you help someone else out by staying with them in the rough water, or you do their wetsuit up, or you lifeguard for them or you show them a new bike route, all those things, all those times you are a friend - they come back to you.

Hildi

Jon Mitchell we love you

All of us at Sea Swim Fitness are/were very sad to hear that Jon Mitchell was involved in a bike accident this week where he was in a collision with a car on the university campus.  We send him our love and well wishes for a good recovery, and also wish those close to him in the supporting role all our best.

we love you guys, stay strong.

Your average swim

Rather an average swim today, perhaps most interestingly is tha tI have written a blog, following a rather long absence from the pen.  I arrived at the beach having met new-comer Andy at the tunnel.  We saw Joan and Sara jogging up the beach making it look all too easy.  After intros were done with andy we prepared for a gentle swim , Sara in warm down mode from the  Brownsea island adventure, Andy trying out his open water stroke and ollie feeling rather tired.  Joan guarded the shallows ably.  A trip round the buoys the captain's way, rather than the devils, with a couple of other widths thrown in.  Nothing too taxing or stressful.  finishing up at the starter buoy we met Stefan out for his walk, seemingly oblivious to the fact that he was belly button deep.  but there we are, all of us rather a mad bunch doing our thing, and doing it well it has to be said.  finished up with sweet tart on the beach that had a crunchy bottom.  Well it was funny at the time. ;-)
see you soon folks!

In which Hildi finds her mojo

Wed August 8th. Lovely April weather again. Luckily the sea temperature is starting to be summery and in fact felt very warm to Hildi, just returned from Swimtrek in the Lake District. She and Paul both donned their 'yellow group' hats in solidarity (Paul having done a Swimtrek trip last year).

Gathering under the shelter of the cafe, the usual suspects plus Domino (needing some cold water on his legs after allegedly beating Paul W at the TT last night - he's going to have to grow some new sideburns, you know), and missing Pete.

Joan and Paul C stuck to widths while the others opted for a couple of devil's laps and, I believe, what us known as the devil's horseshoe. Hildi asked for a head start but in the end didn't need it, and it was a companionable swim stopping only every other buoy for a chat.

Hildi forgot the banana muffins she'd made but waxed lyrical about the joys of hot ribena and there was some exchange of garden produce.

Swimmers: Hildi, Sara, Joan, Paul, Ollie, Alex
Paddlers: Domino
Conditions: drizzly and misty.  Needed fog lights in the sea. Highish tide on way out. Just a little bit bouncy. Warm.

Olympic Swimming

All the talk on arrival at the beach this morning was of the Olympics: Phelps' record-breaking 19 Olympic medals, Chad Le Clos' miraculous 200 fly finish, and Polly's forthcoming trip to the 800FS finals on Friday (thanks to a very kind friend).  Getting into the water to do our thing seemed a bit pathetic but as always, our enthusiasm and love of the sea and of being together soon washed those thoughts away.  A bit more bumpy than of late, giving Cat, one of our less experienced swimmers (and birthday girl), a few problems with sighting, but enlivening Hildi, Alex and Sarah, who just love a sea swim where "you know you're in the sea".

Hildi, Alex, Sarah and Ollie did a couple of laps of the buoys - noting that Pete, doing his own thing as usual, has misnamed the 'devil's' buoys - being as 'The Devil's Way' is an anti-clockwise lap and often difficult thanks to Pike's location on some shallower rocks.  Perhaps they should be re-named the Angels?  Certainly the IEB AKA The Devil's Shoulder, seems like Joan's Guardian Angel to me.

Cat completed a bit more than a lap and Paul C and Joan also did some swimming.  All reconvened for Cat's cake and a bit more chat, and then off to work except those who are on holiday.

Time of swim seems to have settled at about 6.50 for those who wish to join in the fun on Friday.

Swimmers: Hildi, Alex, Ollie, Sarah, Paul, Joan, Cat, plus Judy spotted and hailed on a solo swim
Time in: 6.55-7
Last out: 7.30
Conditions: some sun in evidence, a little bumpy.  Warmish.

Trashed!

A disparate start this morning with various members beginning early or late.  The group was swelled by Lesley being Joan but without the widths or splashing, Annika, second time in a week, Clive & Sharon in the finale throes of their IM/NY training, Alison, second time this week, Teresa giving the men a hard time all the way to Anita Jones' locker,  plus regulars, Ollie, Alex. Hildi & Pete.  Also not forgetting Tesco Value Bread putting in only his second appearance this year.

The sea was lovely again but without Joan's thermometer, it could have been 5 or 25 degrees (who's counting these days?)  All did their own thing, Pete opting for just a single circuit then back to the groyne for some much missed diving.  With the water so clear, it was possible to follow the line of the groyne from a long way out, obviating the need for sighting, watching the crabs scuttling across the surface of the concrete landing strip.

Once back on land, the buoys were finally sorted out and Hildi produced a helpful map.  The groynes are laid out like the constellation of the Plough and are named as follows:

Bottom right - Pike
Top right - The Lost Buoy
Bottom left - Devil's shoulder
Top left - Devil's elbow
Further top left - Poseidon's claw
Outermost top left - Anita Jones' locker

See, easy and quite logical.

And today's title?
Well, this is the downside of good weather when crowds of families congregate on the beach and quite happily leave their trash behind.  Unbelievable! Ollie made a start by piling some of it up and Pete dived down an retrieved a cup, a crisp packet and a towel from the sea bed.
Roll on February when we can reclaim "our beach".

In: 6.30 onwards
Out: 7.30 ish

Sea: Oily (in a good way)
Beach: Trashed

The naming of the buoys

 What a difference a week makes!

With summer really here, the tropical specialists finally climbed out from under their duvets.

A staggered start today with Joan running widths and Ollie, Alex, Hildi & Jon leading the charge to Rotters & back, whilst Pete under orders from first timer this year Alison, decided that laps around the buoys were in order.

Paul & Helen made a welcome appearance as did Annika,  Stefan and family Armfield  making for a colourful crew on the beach.  The sea was just lovely and perfect for the longer swims that we have been looking forward to.  8 laps of the buoys were completed in all with surf guardians Joan & Stefan counting as we came in.

The Rotters bunch returned in order of : Jon, Alex, Ollie and Hildi.  With Pete hanging with toe in buoy chain waiting to welcome them back.

Animated discussions on the beach resulted in definitive naming of our six summer companions.
More on this anon with a map so we don't forget.


Swimmers: Joan, Annika, Alison, Hildi, Jon, Alex, Ollie, Pete, Paul & Helen
Lifeguard duty: Stefan
Spectators: Family Armfield

In:    6.30
Out: 7.30

Sea temp: 16 degrees
Sea conditions: Millpond, bottom seen as far as Lost Buoy and beyond

Surf's Up!

Descending through the tunnel Pete was greeted with full screen white water, putting paid to plans of an out & back to Rotters.  Certainly a day for frolics, not serious swims.

Joining Joan lapping the beach were Ollie & Sara accompanied by a bulky item in a silver suit.  Ollie had brought a surf board for a bit of  Waikiki flair.  Sara & Pete entertained plans of a lap of the buoys.  Wise old owl Ollie counselled against this, suggesting that it would be hard enough to make the IWB, let alone the Lost Buoy.   Scoffing at such defeatism, Sara & Pete ploughed on and on and on, but the buoy just wouldn't get any closer.  Eventually Pete managed to surprise it by creeping up on it from the south.  That worked and soon Sara captured the IWB too.

Joan meanwhile did her guardian duties, trying to spot hats in the surf and puzzling whether they were still attached to heads.  Ollie had launched himself into the briney but there appeared to be a lot of walking and little surfing.

Pete dared Sara  to swim to the Devil's Shoulder (one in from his elbow) and they set off being alternately thrown on to one another and rolled in the waves.  Shoulder reached, Alex could be seen rapidly stripping off (Anita, you really should come more often) and plunging into the waves.

The Portugese man 'o' war swam strongly to the IWB, then the Shoulder before making his way out to the Devil's elbow and beyond.  Pete & Sara meanwhile tried to make it back against the rolling surf, the groyne posing a particular problem with Sara needing to be hauled over.  Pete, worried about Alex, balanced precariously on the gryone scanning for him.  He needn't have worried, a red hat and flailing arms announced his return to the Elbow.  Pete had an attempt at tombstoning  but difficult with waves brushing the midriff.  Sara made it back whilst Pete stayed for surfing lessons from the master.
Ollie decided that it was the "wrong sort of sea" having managed to get up once for seven seconds.

All back safely and news exchanged on the beach with Alex.  The boys posed for Joan indicating that there had been just one suitable wave that day.  I guess that surfers are renowned for their patience.

Swimmers: Joan, Ollie, Alex, Sara, Pete

In 7.00
Out: 7:28
Water temp: 15 degrees

Sea - Bleeding 'eck

Meaty, Weedy, Big & Bouncy

The magically diminishing crew of SSF descended on to the beach this morning. The roll call stopped at three.  Sara, Joan & Pete.

A lively & playful sea greeted us with large mats of weed floating past.  The tide being 3/4 in we decided to venture no further than the inner buoys and both Sara & Pete opted for the wetsuit (one each).

Joan, resting after her usual laps of the beach offered to watch  from the beach until S & P  were safely out of sight(?).

The IWB  (work it out) was reached after what seemed and age.  Sara carefully plotting a course around the weed mats, with Pete ploughing straight through, enjoying some early morning roughage.  IWB reached, widths were decided upon rather than attempt a full circuit since the OWB was invisible unless a particularly large wave offered a downwards view of the sea.

Sara was keen to weasel away for 6 whilst Pete contented himself with four, hanging around with big toe firmly plugged into the buoy chain, watching Sara completing her final two.  The swim back was enlivened by more weed, Pete bringing a large clump back and posed rasta-like until being unsuspectingly upended by a huge wave, driving Sara into fits of giggles.

Cormorants spotted, Joan did laps and paddles.

Swimmers: Joan, Sara, Pete
In: 6.57
Out 7:28
Sea: meaty, weedy, big & bouncy

What day is it?

Friday 6 July and usual suspects on the beach, plus PETE!!!!  Hang on, it's not a Wednesday!  En route to a hospital appointment, the Pike had joined the Friday group for a calm clear swim.  Not quite conditions we would like in July, but still and quiet once we entered the water, gently teasing Ollie about the efforts required from the gentleman party in the process of reproduction.  Ollie the first to the Devil's elbow, and when Hildi and Pete arrived, he was already in repose, arms outstretched to the empty sky, deep in contemplation.  Not wanting to disturb, she and Pete also entering into a moment of mindfulness in an otherwise crazy day.

Joined by the wetsuited pink hats of Sara and Anita, and also Emma, we embarked on trials for the Olympic sea-synchro (an exciting event as yet unapproved by the IOC).  We made stars and tried sitting on the bottom, although this less than successful for the girls in neoprene.  Then Hildi, Ollie, Sara and Anita off to Poseiden's Claw, and further to Davy (Anita?) Jones' Deep.

It was so calm and still we think Joan could have joined us in venturing to the outer swim square buoy, where all of us could stand up, but she was content to keep watch in the shallows.  Back on the beach we changed and chatted.  Pleased to see that Pete had remembered his trousers for once, although Hildi had only a 'Baby Yoda', and needed to borrow one to avoid a DQ for nudity in transition.

As is increasingly the case for Hildi (and maybe others) at the moment, once again the best part of the day.

Seasons in the Sun

We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun.
But I can't help feeling, those long languid swims are gone.
Goodbye calmness my old friend, we've been together since SSF was formed,
Now it's just breathe when you can and try to spot that buoy.
2012 you've not been kind but SSFers are more than a match,
For your gloomy murky misty waves.
We'll be back and back 'til you behave.
(apologies to Terry Jacks)

A disparate bunch gathered in the July gloom and looked intently for signs of water.
Eventually it was spotted and the Wednesday crew with welcome but trepidatious support from second timer Cat, took a brisk walk to the first buoy.  The tide was a low one and about an hour on the turn bringing the familiar easterly current.  All swam out to the Devil's elbow and then on to Poseidon's claw.  Ollie & Cat wisely swam back , Sara & Hildi rashly decided to push on to Davey Jones' Deep. Joan enjoyed the cormorants.

Pete had an inward conversation-
Mind: Ok let's follow the girls
Body: You kiddin' me? I's had enough.
Mind: Come on, it's not far really.
Body: You promised me no more swimming.  You said "Get me round the Forestman and it's beer & kebabs from now on"
Mind: I was desperate, I'd have promised anything.

You get the drift.  Pete, weak as a kitten floundered back to shore, carried 100m or so the wrong way as he went.

All in all, weird sort of occasion.  If we had hopes if not putting Cat off returning, they were dashed when Pete announced for the second week running that he had forgotten his trousers and had to sneak back to the car park in just Yoda again.

Cat, we are really really normal and almost harmless.

Just keep coming - everybody.

Swimmers: Ollie, Joan, Cat, Hildi, Sara, Pete

In: 6.58
Out: 7.25
Water temp 16 degrees
Sea - Why oh why oh why is it always out & choppy?

A little bit of stress reduction

Hildi down to swim but Ollie in running kit. No sign of Joan, Sara, Emma or Paul (at least not before 7), and sea a bit rough to risk a solo swim to the buoy. Sat on the beach discussing the stress of modern life. Enjoyed the friendship and the wind in our hair. Hopefully regroup for a swim next Wed and hope for a return of the calm (weather and life) soon.

Ironman at last

Hildi too tired and it too complicated with polly's swimming to get down today to show off her first place ladies 40-49 trophy, but Pete there displaying his Forestman medal. At last, an Ironman! Now perhaps he can relax and enjoy the sea! Well done to all and hope all Wednesday swimmers enjoyed it.

The taper

Friday 22 June. Hildi and Pete getting ready for the Forestman and Sara for a relay. No swim for us although I believe others went in.

A Turn on the Buoy

Eight swimmers and two cyclists comprised today's turn out. Ollie there to organise and inspire (I still haven't located my deputy's yellow hat) after his cycle, but unable to lead us into the briny due to an attack of the 'Pete's' (a cold). Some discussion about whether fishing boats are allowed into the swimming area as we have seen this now on a number of occasions both morning and afternoon. Does anyone know? The memory of last year's fishing net entanglement still haunts some of us. Domino off on the under cliff while the rest of us entered the still blue water.

Low tide, just turned to make its way in. A long walk out to the easterly buoy but we were rewarded with beautiful water and a clear swim out to the easterly far corner. Emma nervous but swam there and back in company with Pete. Pete no doubt gaining pre ironman reassurance that he is not the slowest swimmer in the world and Emma gaining in confidence with every swim. From there a journey to the outer buoy where Sharon gave pre race coaching on turning round the buoy. The buoy which did indeed have a (I was reliably informed by Sarah) turn sitting atop it before it flew off. A few more laps and turn practice between these two buoys for Hildi and Sharon while Sarah and Alex unable to resist going further towards the sunrise to the 'outer limits' buoy. Hildi and Sharon having finished their technical work also lured out there to meet them and then a companionable swim back, meeting Pete on the way.

Dressing in sunshine and some of us a later start than usual so sloppy time keeping. Please let this be the start of summer!!!

Swimmers: Hildi, Alex, Sarah (suited for health reasons) Sharon (suited -for speed?), Emma, Pete, Stefan, Joan.
Time in: 7:00 
Time out: 7:50
Temperature: 15

Energy!

Hildi arrived at the beach having skipped her run and still yawning. Having lost her yoda last night swimming with Brighton Swimming Club (long story involving children getting wet and having nothing to wear home) she was feeling a bit out of sorts. We like our routines and our security blankets! Sea was bouncy and weather cloudy. Paul and Alex also present and Hildi suggested out to the west inner buoy and maybe widths of the inners from there. Paul still wobbly so in the end he opted for an extended warm up with Joan while Hildi and the Portuguese man of war ventured out for a good half hour swim. The sea was energetic and transferibg its energy to us. We would have stayed out longer as it was so lovely but Alex had an indigestion attack so we came in for safety. A big burp and he felt better - I'm sure he'll love me for saying that! Paul off to work and Hildi, Alex and Koan more leisurely dressing. Swimmers: Joan, Paul, Alex, Hildi Conditions: twelve? Cloudy with the threat of rain. Energetic sea, full of movement but great for a hard swim :-)

Response to a call to arms!

After Paul's call on the blog last week, a renewed attendance among the faithful on Wednesday. Ollie with Penny, Joan, Hildi, Emma, Sara, Domino and Anneka. No Pete due to illness or Paul himself due to work. Even the zealots have to take life's attempts to keep them away from their beloved sea! A calm day and Hildi and Sarah round the buoys. Swimmers: Sara, Hildi, Emma, Joan, Anneka Beach brigade: domino, penny, Ollie Water temp: twelveish

Where do we go from here?

It was stormy today, and low tide. Four of us arrived, Chief Hildi, Alex, Joan and Paul (myself). Not a morning for any serious swimming, three of us decided that early on. Alex, our champion chose to give it a try and swam out to the yellow buoys and back - at least I think he did - but either way, a very brave and competent swim in true SSF spirit. Not much else to do or say, one of those mornings where getting wet was really the only thing we could hope to do, with the whole morning having a wintery/Spring-like feel to it, not at all like the warmer climes that ordinarily characterise the month of June. However, I am happy to report that sea temperatures are warming up considerably.

Smile, its Summer already !

But ....

There has been much speculation in recent weeks as to the future of SSF, some of it whispered and some of it more vocal. As member #1 of SSF I feel it is time to raise this with the members.

Frankly people, we seem to be suffering a lack of numbers, interest and direction of late, and it is difficult to put a finger on it. Both Ollie and myself, one-time all-year-round stalwarts have been shadows of our former selves, making cameos at appropriate times, but largely abandoning the club to others more dedicated than ourselves. True, we all have our daily pressures, work and domestic situations to contend with and cannot always find our way to the beach on Wednesday and Friday mornings. And yes, the weather in the 2012 season has proven to be very unpredictable, and sea temperatures have been unusually slow to warm up. And what is the point of getting up early, heading down to the beach for a couple of windswept minutes in a very unwelcoming sea?

Back on Jun 2nd 2010 it was I who embarked on the first SSF swim, I recall that Ollie was injured that day so could not make it into the water. The following week we branched out onto our first swim, with Ollie trying to convince me that a trip to the furthese buoy was the best choice - and this was the one that marked the lobster pots a fair way beyond the back strait. What? I thought the sales bumph said "Beginners Welcome". After squabbling like turkeys, we compromised and, beginning from an adjacent beach, swam to the first buoy, which for me was quite an achievement. Further swims followed, new members Riccardo, Russell and Anita joined, and the group grew, reaching its peak at around 15 attendees at one stage.

Then there was the first swim to Rottingdean in July in some challenging seas, and I felt proud of myself for completing that trip. And, as a season finale, the swim to the Marina, which I never thought I would do. And who can forget that first winter season with Sara, Joan, Ollie and myself as the ever-present fantastic four? And the snow that started in November? Ollie dropped the wetsuit at the beginning of Winter, the rest of us (excluding Joan who never owned one) shed ours a short while later, braving the cold and finding levels of endurance hitherto unknown.

The following season saw longer and more challenging swims as we headed further afield. Records fell, Pete and Hildi joined the inner hardcore group and a season finale witnessed Alex and Ollie swim an amazing 8K from the Marina to Saltdean and back again. It was the crowning achievement, and perhaps with our Mount Everest being conquered, the mystique slowly began to disappear. The winter season gave us probably the coldest morning we had ever experienced in early February, where body parts were frozen solid and limits abruptly challenged and redefined.

So, now we are in the 2012 season. Whilst Hildi and myself managed a swim to Rottingdean at the end of March, there have been few other achievements of note, with membership (myself included) becoming sporadic and attendance difficult to predict.

So ......
What do we want to do and what do we want to be?

An organised group or an informal collective of swim buddies - or something else?

Should we become more organised, have semi-regular committee meetings and plan out the season ahead?

Should we take it in turns to be club President each year, instead of leaving it to Ollie to take responsibility?

The blog used to be my task, then it shifted to Hildi, but ideally we should all take a turn.

Should we meet at different times of the week? More often, less often? Evening, weekend, night, moonlight swims? Can someone co-ordinate this and take responsibility for checking weather and tides etc. ?

Should we have more or less focus on records and distances?

How about formal races and swims at different parts of the season? Trophies?

A social secretary to organise curry nights several times a year?

Community outreach? Some running maybe?

How about challenging the official Saltdean Swimmers to an event?
The website - yes, my job, and something I have been guilty of ignoring. What do we want to include? Events, swim records, members and their achievements, sea temperatures, weather, tides, personal bests - third-party events? Answers please.

And how about an English Channel Relay?

Or other relays across other stretches of open water?

Who will be the first SSF'er to swim the Channel?

We have completed two years, will there be a third?

Time for feedback.

A quiet one. Where is everyone and where is the Summer?

Paul and Hildi on the beach and Paul very concerned.  Surely last year we had more swimmers regularly here? Surely 2 years ago we had better conditions?  Speculation as to why this might be (the swimmers, not the weather).  Effects of the recession on people's jobs and work load, maybe?  Poor weather for good swimming?  Resolved with Joan when she joined us to make concerted effort to email round on Tuesdays and Thursdays to see who is coming.  Also to get website up to date ;-)

Joan joined us with her meagre shrimp pickings - one lovely large one but barely enough for a sandwich.

Meagre the adjective for the morning, really, as there was even a lack of water.  A very very low tide meant that Hildi and Paul ducking under waves to swim to the Eastward outer buoy were still able to stand in waist deep water.  On returning to join Joan at the inner buoy it was almost on the sand.

An enjoyable swim and lots of resolve to keep the SSF flag flying.  Maybe we need a committee meeting in the pub after the Forestman is out of the way?

Conditions: Low, breezy.
Swimmers: Hildi, Paul, Joan and a lone prawn

SSF celebrates its 2nd birthday and does the Jubilee weekend

SSF turned two and the Queen celebrated 60 years on the throne by giving us peasants an extra day holiday (unless you are a teacher peasant in which case it was during the holiday you already had).  What does SSF do with an extra day?  Gather together friends and family to swim and eat cake!

The plan was a commemorative 60 length challenge plus a monarchists vs republicans tug of war.  Unfortunately the tug of war rope was not available so we did some running about, paddling and wearing of royal family masks instead.  Conditions also conspired against us for the lengths.  For safety we had to swim concurrent lengths in pairs or more - except for Alex who clocked up a massive 12 lengths on his own in very choppy conditions.  We thought we would have to count some laps run by the children but at the last minute 4 more were clocked up by Emma and Tamsin (from Hove, actually).

There were cakes and sausages, fizzy drink and even whiskey.  Fresh caught mackerel from Joan. Fresh baked scones from Sarah.  Lots of fun with friends old and new.

Conditions: Windy and overcast with a little sunny spell later on.  LOTS of whitewater and powerful waves. Tide on the way out.
Swimmers: Alex (12), Ollie (10), Jon (4), Paul (4), Sarah (6), Pete (4), Hildi (6), Anita (6), Emma (2), Tamsin (2)

More photos from Stefan here http://brightonswimteam.com/ssf/20120603/

Anita and Alex lose track of time

After Edinburgh marathon last weekend I was only half expecting to go to the beach today for a swim.  In the end, the prospect of an additional hour with the weight off my feet won out.  And boy, was I glad later in the day when I got called up as a reserve for a gruelling race along the entire South Downs Way!  The SSF flag was kept flying by Anita and Alex.  With neither of them wearing a watch and with both of them enjoying the sun and the sea, Alex was nearly late for work.  But I think by the sound of it they had a great start to the day.

Wednesday 30 May

There was a swim this day but I couldn't be there as husband was away for work.

Summer swimmers spotted!

I came out of the tunnel to the sight of Ollie saluting the sun from the westerly groyn. And indeed the sun was out. And summer it was. Not one, but two summer swimmers joined us. Anita! And, bizarrely over on the next beach, a personage who turned out to be the mysterious Tracey Harris. Trace started out for a devil's loop of the buoys, Joan and stefan in for a dip, Hildi, Ollie, Paul and Anita proposing a lap of the buoys the 'correct' way. BUT scuppered by Hildi forgetting her goggles! So, back out while O and A started their lap. Returned to find Paul being filmed by Stefan for the purposes of stroke analysis. Paul still nervous but I persuaded him to swim to the inner westerly buoy and thence on to the outer one. Met Ollie and Anita and swam back together. Then a few more laps of the inner buoys, a chat out by the buoy with Trace, then out and leisurely dressing in the sun before off to work. Joan already left early to catch prawns and mackerel. Thinking of Emma preparing for her big swim. Knock em dead, Em! Later, a text from Anita saying she was still buzzing from the swim, despite her cold arthritic ankles. Guess she'll be back from now on. Swimmers: Joan, Anita, Ollie ( who seems to have found his mojo spurred on by a speedy Anita), Paul, Hildi, Stefan. In 7.15, out 7.50. Conditions: the best start to the day

No Excuses

SSF is morphing.  Two new members and no Ollie or Paul, Joan continues her bid for marathon glory by completing 23 beach laps - not easy on deep pebbles.  As she was doing this, Hildi was doing smooth laps on the undercliffe above in final prep. for Edinburgh.  Pete arriving as these two were finishing off.  Emma and Andy arrived soon after.  Emma in cossie again with just Andy opting for wetsuit security. Arriving just in time for the start was Stefan with (another?) new camera.  With the tide out it was a long walk to the first buoy.  The sand was very squidgy in places but preferable to the assortment of rocks further west.    We all did our own thing, Andy out to the eastern outer buoy and back, Emma frolicking with Joan in the shallows whilst Pete & Hildi went out for a there & back between the outer buoys.

All back to the beach for the great measuring.  Joan dipped the thermometer and LO! 12 degrees!

This data knocks the stuffing out of any more half baked excuses from the tropical brigade.  So come on down for the celebrations on the 3rd.

Swimmers:  Andy, Emma, Joan, Hildi, Pete
Life savers: Strefan
In: 7:10
Out 7:35
Sea : Poached lobster

Friday and Stefan makes a welcome return

Friday. Ollie working, Pete working, Sarah still convalescent (although I hear she is flirting with the sea in the company of Paul W), Joan had given her excuses on Wednesday. It looked like just Hildi and Emma in conditions where the buoys beckoned. Then a late arrival in the shape of Paul C, hooray. And then, what did we spy coming leaping and bounding over the hill?! Stefan! A trip to the bouys would definitely be possible for Emma with lifeguard presence. In the end just Hildi and Emma off to the bouys as Paul didn't have his nose clip. To the bouy and then Hildi have Emma some 'round the bouy' drills. We are in race specific training phase now, after all. Then back in for a half dozen widths and then dressing in the last of the sunshine we were to see that day. Paul is worried we are fragmenting. Where are our Summer swimmers? We need you. The winter has been cold and harsh. Come back! Conditions: like a mill pond but still bollock-curdling cold for the time of year. Although Emma says in a wetsuit it's toasty except for the face.

In which Emma well and truly earns her waterwings

We were promised not just one new member today, but TWO!  Emma, in training for the British Gas open water swim, plus Andy, embarking on a career as a proper triathlete (next step might be to get a bike, Andy?!).  Bit of a mix up over pre-swim run invites and Hildi resting the running muscles after a 2 hour stint on the treadmill yesterday ('Is that all?' she was asked by some masochist), but both new kids present and correct at 7am on the beach.  Veteran Joan ready to supervise Emma's shallow water work, Ollie with coach's hat on to examine Andy's stroke and Hildi, well, what could she do?  In the absence of Alex (work placement), Pete (correctly taking a rest after a 3km swim last night) and Paul (where was Paul?) SOMEONE had to keep company with the buoys (see, I can even spell it now) so she swam out to the first west buoy and then back to join in the enjoyment of the water and the stroke development.

Hildi and Ollie a couple of laps of the widths while the others dressed and started on the flapjacks, and suddenly someone was on the beach waving at us.  It was Paul, come to say hello after an all-nighter at work.  Lovely to see him and good to see him relaxed with no swimming pressure. But the big news - for some reason I didn't follow, Emma needed her wetsuit at lunchtime.  So, what did she do?  Went in without it!  From anxious novice to 'naked' wild swimmer in 1 week!  I don't think this has been beaten by any SSF swimmer.  We may have to instigate a new award.  Will discuss at next committee meeting.

Swimmers: Hildi, Ollie, Joan, Emma (all non-wetsuited), Andy (suited)
Water temperature: 9.5 degrees (still cold for time of year)

Conditions: Gentle swell, high tide, sunny.  Lovely morning, one of those that makes you feel good to be alive.