Pure evil? Steady on Joan!

Darker and darker are the mornings now but at least this is the slide to Christmas with celebratory swims, songs and vittels to gladden the heart.

Just a trio this morning with Emma & Joan still glowing from bootcamp and Pete wrapped up against the 6 degree chill in the air.  With bike parked and table arranged for the ladies' bits & pieces, Pete retired to the luxury of the new shag pile in order to disrobe.

With the tide out, all were contemplating a stony painful walk to the sea and then little to reward the freezing shoulders until at least 50m out.  It was at this point that Joan announced that the sea this morning was "evil".  The plot thickened as she failed to elaborate and then sprinted off into the inky blackness in search of who knew what.

Once reached, the usual painful feet followed and the gradual numbing of all areas northward.  The timer was on and six minutes into the swim, Pete could feel the rosy glow.  Joan had now made friends with the sea again and Emma was emitting her usual groans as the initial pain subsided and the endorphins kicked in.  The sea was a degree warmer than land with no discernable wind today.  With the tide out, widths were not legal but that didn't stop Pete from throwing in a sneaky one.  For a width to be counted, the groynes must be swimmable to.  Emma however dropped a bombshell and reported that she and Richard had completed two widths of the BIG BEACH at the weekend!  By common consent a big beach width is worth two smaller ones thus propelling Emma into an early lead with 6 playing 4 for Pete and 2 for Ollie - Come one Hildi!

A lovely warm shower for some with Emma refusing offers - my, that woman is hardy.  Confirmation that all can attend the Swim Song on the 22nd with a few extras coming along too.  After careful thought it was decided to turn the Dip & Dash into a Dash & Dip for practical & safety reasons - to be confirmed with the other competitors.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Pete
In 7:06
Out: 7:16
Air temp 6 degrees
Sea temp 7 degrees
Sea: "Pure evil"

Icecream head? Mine's a 99.

It was properly dark when the keymaster arrived in the shape of Joan with the means to allow us to enter nirvana.  Yes, it's hut time again!

Unfortunately the keymaster struggled since all had reckoned without the dark and none had bought torches.  We waited as first Joan then Emma blindly fiddled  - then Pete came to the rescue since this was a rare occasion when he had bought his phone.  The sickly greenish light from an early 2000 Nokia was sufficient for us to gain entry.

After the rough and tumble of last week, today was calm and although two degrees cooler on land, felt much more comfortable.  The tide was in and Joan led the charge to the beach - One can only assume that she has hobbit's feet because running on the stones, Pete was in pain all the way.  The sea was warmer than the air but still potent enough to instantly freeze the toes.  For the good folk of Saltdean, it must have seemed like a Roman orgy was in progress somewhere in the dark, with alternate squeals from Ollie and groans from Emma as the withering briney inched further up the body.

Anyway, this was the start of widths season and letting Joan frolic solo, the others joined with a will to grind them out.  The sea was perfectly still and when we could see it, perfectly clear, absolutely beautiful, no sunrise treat this morning but the first collective ice cream head of the winter.  The first is always the worst because you forget that it gets better after a few minutes.  Anyway, the rosy glow appeared all over our bodies and then it was time to leave, Pete being the last to exit with four widths under belt and the others, two.  One feels that Emma is only just getting warmed up whilst Ollie declared that two was his limit each week until June.

Much discussion of Dip & Dash for New Year's Day and also, the SSF Swim Song for Dec 22nd.
Hoping that many will turn up for both to participate or simply sing & eat.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Ollie, Pete
Apologies: Poorly Hildi

Air temp: 6 degrees
Sea Temp: 8 degrees
In: 7.05
Out: 7.20
Sea: Bombay Sapphire

My eyes, My eyes!

Pete & Ollie went for a run this morning - separately, missing each other in the car park by seconds, Pete must be running better than he thought since Ollie failed to catch him.  5km later and nicely warmed up in spite of the cutting westerly, Pete joined Emma and an apologetic Ollie on the beach.
Both appeared to be looking for the sea - it was a way out and quite boisterous.

Emma and Ollie seemed to be in no hurry to start, explained no doubt by the fact that both had forgotten not only boots but gloves as well.  Pete felt doubly smug as he donned his neoprene bonnet. probably now a fixture until spring. Trying to look cool is not an option at these temperatures. Wading to deeper water was torture for the feet even inside socks. This week Emma vied with Ollie in the squealing-like-a-girl stakes.  Ollie still wins.

The sea was playful negating anything but splashing but all made in Paul C's words " a serious attempt at swimming".  Pete's goggles steamed up and so tried face down in the water without them....and discovered a brand new level of pain.  Won't do that again!

The sea and air were both steady at 8 degrees and the trio were undecided which was preferable.  Water just won but only because with most of the body under, you couldn't feel the biting wind.

Discussion on the beach about possible New year's Day frolicks - the consensus was an SSF "Dip & Dash".  Our version of an aquathlon. Details to be ironed out.

The shakes returned properly today with Pete distributing tea evenly over his hands and yoda.  Still, first sub 10 of the season, it can only start to feel better after this, can't it?

Swimmers: Ollie, Emma, Pete
In: 7:18
Out: 7:28
Air temp: 8 degrees
Sea temp: 8 degrees
Sea: Playful

Mind the Gap - Weds 13-11-13

Posting the blog requires routine.  When that breaks, days creep past and thoughts of what happened
vanish like footprints in the sand (sorry).

One of those lovely times when you can just feel the tendrils of summer and winter meeting under the waves.  The sea temp was hovering in double figures, the tide in and the surface calm, perfect for widths and much enjoyed by Ollie, Hildi & Pete.  Bootcampers Joan and Ema opting for an early dip once more.

Back on shore, an unmistakably winter-like four degrees greeted the swimmers.  Much was made again of the winter yodas, Pete & Hildi once more feeling smug and warm (ish) under theirs whilst Ollie kept the flag flying for traditional british modes of changing.

Ollie did model some new lines in SSF post swim wear see left - watch for developments. In all a very satisfying dip with the prospect that balmy days like this are about to come to an abrupt end.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Ollie, Hildi, Pete

Air temp: 4 degrees
Sea temp: 10 degrees
In:    7:10
Out: 7:30
Sea:  Glorious
Bird: Some kind of gull

The Shake of Arabee?

Wonderful, warm, exotic Arabia as seen from the Sinai peninsula.

This is what Pete saw as he plunged into the aquamarine waters of the half full tub this morning.

Such visions are good, as is exclaiming to one'self "actually this is rather better than I was anticipating" and, "Oh, I can still breathe".  Thoughts rapidly turn to the banal however- "BLOODY HELL", " who turned on the cold tap?" and suchlike.

Just the Gang of Four this morning, free to impose whatever cultural restrictions were deemed necessary - the first stricture to be laid down for future forays being the banning of non-Yoda bearing participants for the duration of the winter season.  The sight of a towel flapping around numbing legs deemed by a vote of 3:1 to be too depressing.

If Hildi, Alex, Ollie and Pete were present, they were missing their Mao in the form of Joan and stalwart party apparatchik Emma.

Back to the Saltdean of the present.  The sea was beautiful, calm, colour as described and COLD.

Widths were completed - Ollie back to normal squealing mode and dives were made off the groyne.
Around 15 minutes for all but Pete who went for the full the 20, extra time needed to match Hildi's widths.

The rosy glow had been forgotten about - it came and went and on the beach, fingers were starting to twitch and words stumbled over - the first shakes of the season had begun.  Hildi needed help in opening the packet of dried pineapple she had bought in lieu of cake(that kitchen can't be finished soon enough) and all agreed that the brutality of winter was not far off.


Swimmers: Hildi, Alex, Ollie, Pete
Earlybird: Joan
Air temp: 10 degrees
Sea temp: approx 12 degrees
Sea: - squint and you can see a felucca on the horizon - aquamarine is the word of the day

Winter drawers on

Saltdean's own Wailing Wall

A post Saltman gathering this morning.  Pete arrived to find Emma & Joan on the beach.  Emma post virus making a tentative outing, Joan post bootcamp - already chilling in the wait for the others.
Alex, Hildi and Ollie arrived and Anita made up the group.  Bootcamp is starting to fracture the timing somewhat, we must decide to make efforts to arrive earlier to accommodate those physical jerks (no offence Joan!), at least that is until it's too dark and that's just a matter of weeks away.

Anyway, the sea was playful but not excessively so and all jumped in and did various things from widths to splash & gossip.  The sea is still fine in terms of temperature and past experience tells us that it should be like this for a few weeks yet - just wait until November arrives snapping at our toes.
With even worse timing, Emma's Richard arrived as we were drying off.  Child duties holding him back but he went gamely straight in and proceeded to impress with what has developed into a nice open water style.  Pete noted enviously.

Back on shore, it was time for cakes, pressies & cards for the birthdays being celebrated.  Alas nothing from the Mitchell kitchen until the building work is complete "unless you wanted a cake tasting of dust" was Hildi's ripost.  We all look forward to the wonderful offerings which must emanate from a purpose built Mitchell bakehouse.  Congratulations to Alex who is now a qualified physiotherapist!

Pete is taking a break from the blog on account of his first foray into the murky underworld of the tattoo artist.  Hopefully nothing too exciting will occur next week.

Richard ploughs a lonely furrow

Swimmers: ANITA, Hildi, Alex, Ollie, Joan, Emma, Pete & Richard
In: 7.15
Out: 7.30
Air temp - approx 12 degrees
Sea temp: approx 14 degrees  (really need that thermometer!)
Sea: Mid-tide and churney but not enough gumption to spit you out.

I wanna be, I wanna be a Male Model.

Alex models Lidl's finest florescent compression wear

Just Joan on the beach this morning - drying off.  We really need to get the timing right.
Pete and Alex arrived simultaneously, Pete from the car park and Alex striding along the front having run in from Woodingdean - more marathon prep.  We were joined by strangely naked figure.  Figuratively that is - sans the necessary kit for swimming - Stefan?  No, Ollie but not about to take up life saving duties - couldn't stop because apparently he had to "talk to India".  He just came to be sociable and to apologise for the non-reappearance of Pete's socks.  These were made up for however by the very real appearance of Alex's full length florescent compression socks - a Lidl bargain.

Another non-appearance were the buoys.  Gone for the winter - Joan reported that yesterday was their last.

The sea was "deck flat" as the Australians say and creepily foggy but Pete suggested that they swim west and that he would turn round when he saw Alex coming back.  Conditions were nigh perfect as the pair cleared the groyne and struck out.  The tide was low and getting more so and soon, tendrils of weed were flickering past bellies so remembering the calamity of the stranded maidens earlier in the year and no Ollie to carry us home, the decision was made to head for deeper water.  All went well and after a while, Alex announced that he was turning back.  Pete however, had the bit firmly gripped and decided to head on to Rotters - never been done without a wetsuit before and today, conditions were right.

The two waved and parted company, Alex to battle the current and Pete to find a landing spot past the toilets.  Pete made land about 25m from shore and had to belly skim the rocks and weeds but reached the shore unbruised or cut.  The pain however, was about to begin.  A missing swim sock the night before was the source of the problem.  Pete jogged back gingerly in barefeet, cossie and still wearing his hat.  If he was half expecting admiring glances from the passing commuters, he was way off.  Most seemed to be looking beyond Pete as if wondering what had happened to his carer.

The feet survived and Pete arrived back in time to rejoin Alex and wish him luck for the outcome of his thesis later in the week.

Swimmers: Joan (earlier), Pete, Alex
International conference delegate and sock stealer: Ollie
Air temp:  13 degrees and very still
Sea temp:  around 14 degrees
Sea: Marie Celeste

18-09-13 Smurfin' 'n' Surfin'

After the fun of the surf - Pete then has to test run the Saltman.

Fewer today as Pete & Ollie arrived on the beach to find revellers in the water.  The revelers turning out to be Joan & Emma, chillin' after bootcamp.  Joan said her goodbyes and Emma hung on to watch for developments.

"Revel they might, for there be a profusion of surf today and not a lot of swimmin'"  thought Barnacle Pete.  Surf dude Ollie had other ideas and enticed Pete in and over the breakers towards where Pike was bobbing wildly.  This was all viewed by an anxious Emma from the safety of the beach.

The buoys were awry and with the exception of the "Elbow", formed a diagonal line out to sea.  The intrepid pair used this as a guide and swam one to the other and back again.  The breakers were starting early, occasionally engulfing poor Pike and those around him.  Coming in was fun and an extra layer of skin in the form of a few mm of neoprene, removed some of the worries about laceration.

Emma breathed again and bade her farewell.  Ollie found that he was deficient sockwise and had to beg some part used ones from Pete.  All in all - a lot of fun and another small step for Pete in the confidence stakes.

Swimmers:  Joan, Emma (early), Pete, Ollie
Air temp: 16 degrees
Sea temp: 15 degrees
Sea: Sufficient to carry away all but the most determined smurf

Birthday Odes 11-09-13

All gathered except Anita who had gone by then!

A decent sized contingent were present to see and hear Sara's birthday odes to Emma, Alex and Anita this morning.  As usual, Sara did us proud with witty, entertaining and smutty references to the three celebrants.

Formalities aside, we plunged in  and made the most of the lovely flat water and well positioned buoys.  Anita, Alex, Ollie, Hildi & Pete choosing circuits (well, Pete managed one) whilst Emma & Sara splashed and gossiped.  Joan already boot camped and swum, bidding her farewells.

The occasion was finished with ginger cake offered by both Emma & Alex.  Unusually since there was cake on offer, Stefan was nowhere to be seen!

Swimmers:  Anita, Hildi, Emma, Sara, Ollie, Alex, Joan (earlier) and Pete
Air temp: 17 degrees
Sea temp: 15 degrees
Sea: Make the most

A low ebb

Pete arrived to find Joan beachcombing between running widths, having already been "bootcamped" for the day.  It was a gloomy Joan with the opening gambit of "Is that it then?"  She was reflecting on SSF's poor attendance recently, a consequence of summer holidays perhaps but a worrying trend.

Ollie arrived to lighten the mood and all three agreed that they would continue to turn up whatever and it was decided that we still have a good core including Hildi & Emma to rely on. The latter two  being SSF stalwarts,  it was also hoped that Alex will become a more regular attender once he has completed his training and thesis.  It is hard with so few to rely on, an absence of a couple makes a big difference.

The sea was really oily and a bit strange.  Not literally oily but oil-like as it lazily licked the shore, trapping a load of seaweed and a detritus of dying plastic bags. Symbolism ignored, Joan plunged in followed by Pete & Ollie who struck out for Pike.

En-route for the Lost Buoy, Pete made his second jellyfish sighting in a week - different individual, same location.  This section now to be known as "jellyfish alley".  We paused and Ollie said that the sea felt tingly, "electric", it was weirdly still and very clear, almost prescient of some horror to come.  The pair shook off the feeling and looked towards shore to see the unmistakable figure of Stefan wading but when next we looked, he was gone.  The Devil's Claw and Elbow were made without further incident but on the way back to Pike, an odd easterly current was apparent, felt nowhere else but within 20m of Pike.  Jellyfish alley was shunned for the next loop and a diagonal was chosen followed by a return to the Elbow and a second diagonal to the groyne.  Joan had long gone by the time land was reached and both were a little subdued by the strangeness of the morning.

On the way back, Ollie & Pete vowed not to let things slip and to arranged for all to meet in convivial surroundings for a "good long chat".

Swimmers: Joan, Ollie, Pete
Ghostly wader: Stefan
In 7.18
Out 7.50
Sea temp 16 degrees
Sea - weird and a bit creepy

Do the swim? run? run!

Pete should have known better.
Although the water promised to be good with plenty of it, there were rather fewer commitments to swim on the airwaves last night.

In fact only Pete suggested that he might be there and might run first.

An unsurprisingly empty beach greeted the would be swimmer and so after a few minutes sitting in his box, contemplating the seaweed and not wishing to break the cardinal SSF rule, Pete decided that a run was in order.  It turned out to be a good decision because although some favour the noise & fumes of the high road, the low road was for Pete with only the sea, gulls (and it has to be said a lot of other runners & commuters) for company.  The brisk westerly meant that there was a little chop on an otherwise calm sea so by the time the marina was reached, the sea in the lee was glassy, transparent and very inviting...he nearly did a Stefan, but resisted.

Here's hoping for more returnees from hols, work & other commitments next Wed.


Swimmers: none
Runners: Pete
Sea: inviting in the west

Get orf my land!

Ok that's how it looked this morning when our visit coincided with a massive 0.1m of water at Newhaven.

Instead of bobbing up and down on the water, the seagulls were strolling around like proprietorial farmers inspecting their crops of newly uncovered sealife.

Pete and Hildi were soon joined by Ollie, Alex, Stefan & Joan but our early morning reverie was rudely interrupted by squeals and laughter from wetsuited imposters 100m out and up to their ankles in the briney.  The imposters turned out to be Anita and Lara having a post boot camp wind down.  After several aborted attempts at swimming, they settled for scraping bellies on the rocks and nattering.  They waited for us to join them and we had a further few minutes of natter before we agreed that there might be just enough water to squeeze over the rocks.  Alex was straight out followed by Pete practising his "high elbow" technique.  Ollie however, decided to invent a new stroke in honour of the occasion.  It started with a kick and ended with sort of limp-wristed breast stroking hands - the most popular name seemed to be the "breast crawl".

Anyway, the group swam out level with Devil's Claw but on Joan's beach side.  All then swam towards the Claw and hence to the Lost Buoy.  The current was strong and Pete as usual made a meal of it. When he arrived, the rest were already being drifted back towards him.  At this point Hildi declared that All should make back for the Claw, Ollie pointed out that Pete hadn't had a rest but Hildi simply commented that "he should have swam faster" - she's a hard woman.

Once the beach had been regained, everyone disappeared quickly, Pete realising that yes he was starting the first day of the summer holidays but some poor buggers still had to work!

Swimmers: Ollie, Alex, Hildi, Pete
Life saving: Stefan (disappointed again!)
Beach crew: Joan
Squealers: Lara & Anita

Sea temp - 14 degrees
Air temp -   Actually felt a bit chilly
Sea - What sea?

Guess Who's Back?

Its me!!!

A lovely lovely morning.  two lovely's worth.
Went for a run at about 6:30 headed down to ovingdean and puffed and huffed back up the hill over to rottingdean just to see Hildi and Pete disappearing into the tunnel.  i quickly grabbed my bag and dashed after them.
i emerged from the tunnel to see swimmers already out there - i must be off some inner circle communication list I thought, due to my prolonged absence, but no, we had some early starters, fear not ollie.
i learned Anita was out there and a couple of new faces, lovely to see.  I was joined on the beach by Pete, Hildi, emma, Paul with new bike, Chrissy (not sure if spelt right) and Stefan.  joan a little later.
We donned the gear whilst two ladies came out - sorry I didn't catch your names! -  and then we hit the water, Anita just exiting we said our hello's goodbyes - sorry I didn't catch the other lady with anita - was that Lara?
Off we went clockwise round the buoys, enjoying a perfect view of the seabed and loosened up towardes the first buoy.  From there we went on to complete two laps, hildi with her new diagnosis of hayfever went on not wanting to hang about and continued round.  Safely back on beach we all agreed Chrissy had picked the perfect conditions for her first swim before heading off to release tea to the masses.

i left shortly after with hildi still lapping, up to 4 at that point I think, and Pete patiently waiting for hte run to start.  well done everyone, it was fantastic to see so many faces out there this morning and its wonderful to be back.

mumours of a marina swim in september and also the Saltman for which I have no choice but to enter, I'm told. bring it on.

Starfish memories

Slightly odd collection this morning with all the regulars unable to make it except Pete (who now classes himself as a regular once more).  He arrived to find a wetsuited pair already wading into the sea.  Pete was to join Anita and Lara this morning.  Lara had just finished a bootcamp session and Anita had just missed one but wanted a quick dip before work.  Even though Pete stripped off and sprinted into the sea, the others had already swum out to the "Claw" and were well on the way to the Lost Buoy.  They were very patient however and waited for Pete to join them.

This was a lowish tide and the inner buoys were floating in about 2m of clear water.  Clear enough to see the army of starfish assembled beneath.  They seemed to be intent on something but even after diving down to observe closely, their intentions could not be uncovered. Perhaps they were off to occupy the Lido until Joan's wise plans were listened to and acted upon, who knows but they looked pretty determined.

Anyway, Pete thanked his stars that Anita was in a hurry to get to work since the pace required to reduce the waiting time of the speedy pair to a manageable minute or so at each buoy was taking it's toll.  Those are fast girls!

Swimmers:  Lara, Anita, Pete
In: 6.50
Out 7.10
Sea temp: 14 degrees
Air temp: est 12 degrees with a fair wind chill
Sea:   Clear with no discernable current, tiny waves

Competent and Stupid

Weds 3rd July  dawned and a strong north-easterly was blowing. It was warm enough and a good sized group assembled on the shore.

As well as Joan, Hildi, Sara, Emma and Pete, newly qualified lifeguard Stefan was doing fully clothed duty this morning.

It's strange that the waves when seen through the tunnel don't seem so bad but up close and personal, every one seems to have your name etched on it - and not in a good way.

With this in mind, Joan and Emma played safe and decided that to venture out would be plain foolhardy.
Hildi, changed and charged down to the foam, got sufficiently wet to justify the use of the yoda then thought better of a full inundation.  Meanwhile, Pete waited patiently for a calm moment and plunged in.  Closely followed by wetsuited Sara who in her customary manner, shot out straight for Pike which this morning was some way out.

Pete busied himself with a width and lungfuls of brine and waited for Sara's return although it was impossible to see her such were the waves, he decided that it was actually easier to watch the reactions of those on shore - no panic indicated that all was well.  Pete needn't have worried since she soon came back, cleaving the surf with a determined stroke.  Sara, touched ground first with Pete deciding that a bit of frolicking was in order before being spat out on to the beach as shown in Hildi's picture.

All in all, a nice bit of rough and tumble and a welcome return for Pete to full time swimming again.

Watchers: Joan, Emma,
Half wet: Hildi, Stefan
Swimmer: Sara, Pete

Sea temp: 14 degrees
Air temp:  14 degrees
Sea:    OooEr Mussis

Cabbage Patch Pete

Hildi cancelled with a bad back.
Pete announced that he would be coming and after the last no show when the wind was up, felt that he ought to be there.

Unfortunately the other SSFers had thought differently and once more, lonely Pete looked forlornly for splash buddies.

It's only when not distracted that one notices that which has been growing under the nose for months.  The sea kale was in full bloom and looking fairly incongruous at the top of the beach.

The sea wasn't great but Pete was tempted to break the rule, this being the last opportunity before going under the knife again.  However, sense prevailed, not wishing further injury on the gammy hand.

Pete said goodbye to the sea for a few weeks, glad to have at least seen the blooming brassicas.

Swimmers: None
Forlorn shore starer: Pete
Sea: Angry & sandy

2Fast 2Furious - Saltdean Drift

Sat 8th June
Pete picked up a delicate Hildi for a celebratory post OFSTED dip on Saturday.

The weather promised a flat sea but once more, the northerly chop was back.  With the tide right in, it was a long way to Pike this morning.  Pete (having forgotten wetsuit) set off first, rapidly overtaken by Hildi.  All going well with Pike firmly in sight but never seeming to arrive.

Stopping to check bearings, Pete was now in the same position but 25m to the west.  It was the infamous "Saltdean Drift" a boon if swimming to Rotters or the Marina but a pain if heading for France.

Both decided on discretion and felt that we would leave it at Pike for today.  The trip back was hard with both the northern chop and Saldean drift contriving to make this a difficult undertaking.  Hildi , having beached, then launched back to ensure that Pete arrived safely.

Back on shore,the wind was making a nuisance of itself, lifting yoda and generally cooling the June weather to that of March.  Hildi sensibly not relinquishing industrial yoda and fur lined boots.

Nice to be back without wetsuit, Pete decided that his cold water conditioning was returning.

Swimmers:  Hildi, Pete
In: 10.30
Out: 10.50
Air temp.: 8 degrees
Sea temp: Guess 10 degrees
Sea: 2Fast 2Furious

Northerly Chop

Weds 5th June
The view from Woodingdean was good with wonderfully flat calm seas.
Down on the beach however, a vicious northerly was whipping up a fierce little chop on the surface.

Another good turnout today with Joan, Emma - nervously anticipating the Arun on Saturday, Alex, Sara & Pete with a welcome appearance from Paul W disguised as Wally (not A Wally).  Hildi about to be thrown into the maelstrom of OFSTED was currently camping with year 5s (OFSTED probably preferable).

Sara Joan & Emma opted for splashing & chatting whilst the boys decided to make use of the now correctly aligned buoys.  Paul led first closely (but not for long) shadowed by Pete with Alex bringing up the rear.  The target was a loop starting with Pike, Pete quickly lost Paul and looking behind, found himself all alone - Alex had passed on his blind side (really must develop bilateral).  Turning at the Lost Buoy, the chop really came into it's own, with no swell just unpredictable waves in the face made for laborious progress.

So laborious in fact that on rounding the Devil's Elbow, five bodies in various states of undress were visible on the beach, Pete ploughed a lonely furrow back to base.

All in all, a good workout and with 10.5 degrees on the scale,  all were pleased to be swimming in double figures at last.

Swimmers: Paul W, sara, Emma, Alex, Joan, Pete
Time in: 7.10
Time out - Pete: 7.30
Air temp: 12 degrees
Sea temp: 10.5 degrees
Sea- In, flat, northerly wind  chop

In which the second tropical water specialist makes an appearance!

With the Swashbuckler Middle Distance Triathlon on Sunday, albeit with the prospect of a cancelled or shortened swim due to cold, Sharon decided it was time to get her wetsuit wet.  There was originally a lot of interest in being there for this rare sighting, but maybe it was the effects of last night's 'Deans Factor' semi-finals, or maybe more family related issues which kept people away, and in the event only Hildi and Sharon swam, although Ollie must have sniffed out the cake and came down to say hello.

Sharon a little nervous, so we stuck to widths, even though the buoys have been returned to their rightful formation following Pete's call to the council last week.  Apparently they assured him they would be resited once the swimming season started and could not be prevailed upon to engage in Pete's discussion about what constitutes a swimming season.

Warmed up in the sun with chilli chocolate cupcakes.

Shadows & Misplaced Buoys

This Wednesday saw possibly the largest gathering his year of Saltdean SSF.There were even shadows on the beach as we assembled and changed. It would seem that the tide has finally turned.  We listened to Sara's account of the Dorney 10k swim - really well done for that, but  it must be remembered that this is only a prelude to her Bridge-Bridge swim - 14k in all! 

Alison was making her first appearance this year after the New Year's day swim but chose to land crew and took photos with her new camera.

The tide was already low and the water still receding so we thought that we ought to get in.

Pete still favouring the security of the wetsuit until such time that his hand is once more behaving itself, the others in standard SF kit, as au naturel as the council might allow.  Stefan made a welcome appearance, he reassured us by coming out with us until we reached swimming depth.

Whilst Joan basked in the shallows, enjoying the refreshing English Channel after the awful heat of the Indian Ocean, Ollie & Pete struck out for the first buoy, soon to be joined by Hildi & Alex.  It was so good to be all out together again and all agreed that the experience had been much missed so when Ollie suggested the furthest buoy, all were up for it.

The buoys are still not right and swimming to them after the stability of the past couple of years is odd - it puts us out of kilter.  If they are not moved back soon, we shall have to rename them.  Today, we swam to the former "Pike" and thence to the "Lost Buoy"

As we returned to Pike, we heard girlish shouts from the east, reminding us that Sara & Emma had not joined us and were just "hangin'", Sara enjoying a bit of  post race relaxation and Emma tapering for the Arun.

All reassembled on the beach for cupcakes (thanks Hildi), chat and tea.  The sun had by now climbed in the sky and all agreed that at last May had truly arrived - let's make the most of the remaining three days!

Swimmers: Joan, Alex, Sara, Hildi, Emma, Ollie, Pete
Land crew: Alison
Life saving duties: Stefan
Air temp: 12 degrees
Sea temp: 10 degrees (estimate)

In: 7.10
Out 7.30
Sea: Out there!

First Trip to the Buoys

Alex, Hildi and Ollie ventured out to the first buoy.  Seemed a lot further out when we got there than it looked from shore, so came back in early.  Good decision as the journey back was longer!

Wednesday first shift

Hildi arrived first, shortly followed by Judy, who had a quick dip.  The others seemed to be late (although Hildi had an innaccurate watch sourced from the bottom of Polly's swimming bag as hers was broken) and she was half expecting to join Judy.  But then Emma and then Alex came over the pebbles.  A highish tide (on the turn we think) allowed for widths which were mainly breastroke as the sea seemed chilly to begin with.  Alex and Emma got out to join Ollie for a chat while Hildi put in a few more widths, making 20 minutes in total.  Not cold once swimming, but a mild dose of the shakes a bit later.  Recovered core temperature before break time, so the sea is definately warming up.

We'ed in it to make it warmer for second shift as I know Jon doesn't like the cold.

Swimmers: Hildi, Emma, Alex (all non-wetsuited)
Spectators: Ollie
Temperature: probably 9?
Conditions: Calm, high tide

Ollie will be there on Friday for first attempt on the buoys with Hildi

Hot Beaching

It's all starting to happen now.

The early shift comprising Emma, Alex & Hildi hit the beach at 7.00.  Jon & Pete raced down to a barely cooled beach to start the second shift.

The weather is improving, sea temp rocketing and Jon has squeezed into his wetsuit.

Jon is taking Pete's place at the Arun swim and after too many months black lining, he saw the need to leave the tepid chlorine and hit real water.

Conditions as last Saturday were perfect, a high and lazy tide greeted us and with no wind, these were bathtub conditions (not even ice bath).

After borrowing gloves and fretting about imagined cold, Jon took the plunge, a bit of anxious shallow breathing ensued but that quickly calmed and we set off for a first width.  Jon rapidly demonstrating that taking Pete's place on the Arun was wise since Pete's left arm was still not really doing anything constructive, just whirling round in order to keep the right hand company.  Still, at least this time, anticlockwise circles were avoided.

After a return trip, Jon announced that it was enough for a start whilst Pete took in a further brace of widths, finishing with a much looked forward to dive off the groyne - only in mid-flight did it occur to him that it might not be the best thing to put a recovering appendage through.

Both back dry and warm on the beach, Pete declared that he was seriously overdressing - still really in February mode.  Not too long before the wetsuit is retained soley for reservoirs and competitions.

Swimmers: Jon & Pete
Time in: 9.50
Time out:  10.10
Sea temp:  No Joan so guessing 10 degrees
Air temp 11 degrees
Sea: Bathtub

Lost Buoys & Baby Steps

The arrangement was timely, Emma & Richard trying out their wetsuits, an invitation to Pete to step back into the water was too good to pass up.  On the morning, the weather was co-operative with a lovely calm, mid-tide, the sun poking through shallow clouds and no wind.

The buoys had been out for a couple of weeks but were clearly still to find their summer formation, there were buoys in all the wrong places.  A call to the Council is in order.

Pete, in a wetsuit for the first time since.... well last September actually, took about 10 minutes to one-handedly coax the reluctant neoprene over an unfamiliar body.  But it was done and then out  into the welcoming waves.  The shock on the hands for Emma & Pete was immediate and precipitated a dash back to force on a pair of gloves.  Richard seemed quite happy with the arrangement

Gloved and booted, Emma & Pete went straight for a full stroke and got for their trouble a full ice-cream head.  Emma muttering that it had got colder again. We put that all behind us and settled down to the task of swimming widths.  Pete was pleased with the anaesthetising  effect of the cold water on his gammy hand although this was short lived and after one width, reverted to one handed swimming in large anticlockwise circles.

Emma & Richard plugged on, Richard pleased with his progress and Emma now quietly confident about the impending Arun swim. Out on the beach, the lack of wind and an emboldened sun made for some lovely and unexpected basking. It was good to be back!

 All in all a satisfactory outing for all concerned.

Swimmers:  Richard, Emma, Pete
Time in: 8.45
Time out:  9.00
Sea temp: Colder than of late - approx 8 degrees
Air temp: 12 degrees
Conditions: Cold bath, millpond

A Nostalgic Swim

Hildi, Alex and Ollie all joined this Winter's regular, Emma, for a Good Friday swim.  No Joan, so no beach hut.  We convened on the 'usual' or, 'Summer' beach.  Tide very very low and plenty of fisher-folk digging for bait.  Bitterly cold.  This is how we used to do it: changing on the beach under a flurry of snow (YES!, SNOW!).  Not even a Winter yoda in those days.  Alex and Ollie took their time getting under.  Motivated by the need to 'attempt a proper swim' in order to count a March swim, Ollie eventually joined Emma in some breaststroke (I think he may still have been wearing his woolly hat).  Hildi face in for some crawl and then Alex also under the water. So cold that our legs were numb and our shoulders hurt.  But then, on the way out, Hildi and Emma reluctant to leave the water for the wind-chill of the beach, some running and then the euphoria.

Changing was tricky with frozen hands.  Hildi opted for the 'get naked and cuddle a hot water bottle on bare skin under the yoda' technique.  Others slightly more decorous.  Chocolate cake with golden dust and sharing of hot drinks to warm up.

A little planning for the Saltman on May Day weekend and then off to enjoy this holiday weekend.  Lovely to see the boys again.  Hopefully all back together under the sun soon.

Swimmers: Alex, Emma, Hildi, Ollie

Conditions: Steel grey still and eerie.  Lowest of low tides.  Bitterly cold.  Snow. Gold awards all round.

Wednesday 27th March

Just to keep you up to date: Swim  this morning

 

 

No Emma. Celebrating her daughter's birthday!

Sara came into view with her new backpack, her usual chirpy self. I cuddled into my yoda. It was bitterly cold with a stiff NE wind and grey skies.

We took out the old thermometer as we waded into the incoming tide. The crab and lobster season has started and the fishing boats were out putting out thir pots on a calm and steel grey  sea. A pretty picture but not feeling so pretty the further we went in. Sara headed out but not as  far as usual and  and came back red in the face. Joan was silent, too cold to say much.

Warmed ourselves with our bottle of water and took ages to change. This followed by hot drinks and honey sandwiches.

Now Pete you wish to do a Rotters swim on Saturday? Take note of the latest data.

 

Swimmers:  Joan Sara

Air temp: 1C

Water temp had risen by a whopping .25 since the previous temp check: 2C and we checked it twice.

Sun 24th March

Sunday 24 March

 

Cold, bitter NE wind blowing.

Emma Christine and Joan ran down the beach and stopped. It was bitter. Joan plunged in followed by Chris who ran in and ran out! Emma followed, less noisy than usual and headed for the far groyne.

We made our way up the groyne and to the shelter of the hut. Getting dressed was slow and awkward. We were grateful for the hut this morning.

We look forward to seeing the group again on Wednesday and Friday this coming week.

 

 

Swimmers: Christine Emma Joan

Air temp: 0C

Wind: NE and bracing

Sea temp: Cold cold cold

Thurs 21st March

 Crisp and cold, light winds and a bit of a playful chop in the sea but felt a tad warmer than yesterday.

Sara plunged in and headed out. Joan enjoyed  herself closer inshore and kept watch .

Honey sandwiches, hot tea (and soup) warmed us as we completed another morning's swim.

Swimmers: Sara  Joan

Time in water : 8 mins

Air temp : 4C

Water temp: surprisingly fresh and spring-
like.

Wed March 20th

Slight mist in the air and cold. A roll on the sea and tide at half mast.

The 3 stalwarts made their way down the shingle, Sara and Emma giggling and chatty.

Joan headed in and found a steep shelf down with Sara and Emma following. Sara soon headed out to sea and Emma  slowly made her way in turned on her back, then swam to the far groyne.

We all enjoyed our swim and made our way up the beach. The sun peeped out from the mist and we could feel it's instant warmth as we headed home and promised to meet the next day.

Swimmers: Emma Sara Joan

Time in water: 8 mins

Water Temp: 

Air temp:4C

Joan says: Mercury - still sinking!

Sara and I swam this morning. Blue skies calm and still. Cormorants winging their way. Cold cold morning.

Air temp 0 deg. and wait for it: Water temp. 1.75 deg C. Sara and I checked this 3 times so no doubters please or 'Brighton says.......'

We swam in the water in which we took the temp. The coldest yet!!

Spring has sprung - and so has Pete

Pete is taking a break from swimming owing to a break of another sort.  Hoping to be back at some stage during March in order to secure gold award for 2013!

It was a beautiful morning with slight waves from the east and highish water so no wading. The temp in the air was 8 as registered on the wall thermometer and it certainly felt more comfortable in the water.

Sara had a long swim out and Emma did widths while I played. Most enjoyable and yes it felt like spring!

Probably the best beach in the world

This is Sara's impression of our lovely beach.
I think she's got something there, especially her name for the painting

It wasn't quite like that today - tide right out, beautifully calm and nowadays you can see right down the coast.

Pete, Emma, Joan and Sara assembled at the appointed hour, the mood slowly changing from the dour and stolid demeanor of recent weeks to a lightness to match the morning and the recalling of last year when only four weeks hence, Paul, Hildi, Damian & Pete completed what they assumed would be the first of many trips to Rotters. How wrong they were - that was the best of the year.

With such warm thoughts, all ran down the beach with Pete first to begin the long wade to swimmable water.  Sara & Emma as usual nonchalantly nattering together as is their wont.  Joan & Pete were shoulders under and Pete going for a (virtual) width by the time the others got their feet wet.  What happened next was that each did their own thing,: Sara off for croissants again, Joan & Emma luxuriating, Pete head under trying to breathe and battling with ice cream head.

There followed a prolonged chat with tea.  Too much changing in twilight, Emma rather surprised a passer by and resolved to remember to exercise more decorum for subsequent swims.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Sara, Pete
Time in: 7.15
Time out 7.29
Sea temp: Doh!
Air temp: 3 degrees
Sea: Friendly

Two in a tub

Just Pete & Joan this morning.  All the other regulars otherwise engaged.

With a drizzle in the air and two degrees on the thermometer, it really felt like the back end of the hungry month this morning.  Still Joan was bubbling with enthusiasm as she made the SSF winter HQ ready for business.  Pete was raring to go today - a man on a mission.

Idle chat and then a dash to the sea which was obligingly full although a short tide today.  Lots of still water framed by the groynes made for a nice ice bath.  Joan was first in, sprinting down the beach and no messing.  Pete sauntered over to the west groyne and touched base. Both then did their own thing, Joan enjoying the company and the various birds making  the most of the early morning drizzle; Pete to do the first width.

It was really not a freestyle sort of day.  Breath came in fits & starts so the less efficient breast stroke was employed inching Pete slowly to his goal of touching five groynes this morning.  In all a workmanlike occasion with Joan leaving Pete to finish his last width and kindly running a width or two just to keep an eye out.   All done then back to Yodas, tea & shakes.  The need for new blood was discussed and both agreed that once the winter had turned, we would find ways to lure members of the  TWAT society to our beach.

Swimmers: Joan, Pete
In: 7.37
Out: 7.47
Air temp: 2 degrees
Sea temp: forgot - cold
Sea: Icy tub

Blue skies, nothing but blue skies

Pete & Hildi on a special half term teachers' dip.
The Pete needing an ice bath after the Brighton half and Hildi needing ... well more widths actually.

A 7.30 start meant not only daylight but sun, glorious sun!
Still chilly mind with an extra ten minutes added to both journeys to the beach as a result of icy windscreens but worth it to see a lovely inviting, gentle surf.

Hildi wore her special beach camouflage outfit and is seen drinking tea with her own shadow today for the first time in how long?

Anyway -  preliminaries over and into the surf.  Both decided on starting from the eastern groyne and swimming home.  It was a little breathless at first but half a width of breast stroke was enough to remind us that this is a totally inappropriate stoke for anything but a flat sea.  How those early channel crossers managed is beyond our ken.  Hildi went further out to avoid being jostled whilst Pete stayed inshore and gulped icy salty water.

The first width achieved and was Hildi looking to get out?  No of course - she went for another and so did Pete.  Neither manged a whole one and both agreed on a half.  Hildi wanted to stay and frolic but Pete, hands already losing sensation decided that the call of the Yoda was too strong.  Tea and croissants to follow with the delicious anticipation of long warm swims now surely just round the corner.

Time in sea: 8 minutes
Temperature: no Joan so no temperature
Sea: deceptively inviting with a nasty little bite

Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon,

Joan is a very fast driver.  She sprinted back up the hill muttering that she had to go home to bring the right keys for the grotto.  By the time I had greeted Sara, lights indicated her return.  You almost didn't need them this morning however.

The sun is finally back.  No more torchlight entries to the cold welling deep.

Well actually, today, there wasn't a lot of welling going on on account of the 0.5m low tide. Another long chilly wander out to find a swimmable depth.  But now there was an additional pain - rocks.

Yes rocks and lots of them.  The group were taken aback since all recalled this section of the beach being a bit smooth and sandy.  Not today.

Rocks are a particular pain when the lower limbs are anethsetised by the cold since you don't really know how badly you've barked your shins until later.  Emma also reported scraping her belly in a vain attempt to become seabourne.  Pete wandered our a bit further and thought all was well until he was also grounded again.  Sara however had none of it and was soon demonstrating her trademark perpendicular path south.  Emma & Pete returned to frolic a bit with Joan who announced that she had forgotten the thermometer and dashed rapidly out of the water in order to retrieve it. Anyone else doing this would have been under suspicion of not wanting the full monty with regard to dawn refrigeration - not our Joan.  Emma however, sprinted after her and the baton was passed.  We gathered round to see the result which was a miserly 3.5 degrees.

Pete ran widths of the sand in order to warm up - a process which seems to favour all parts of the body with the exception of the hands.  Emma & Sara walked slowly & companionably back, enjoying being able to do this in full daylight for a change.  Joan had already enjoyed a warm shower by the time we reached her.  Sara told us about her exploits of swimming round the pier in the company of  a "naked" swimmer whose hardiness would test our collective resolve.  All enjoyed tea and looked forward to events planned for days ahead when the arrival of the sun would no longer be a novelty.



Swimmers: Joan, Sara, Emma, Pete
In: 7.15
Out: 7.27
Air temp: 1 degree
Sea temp: 3.5 degrees
Sea: A long way away, perfidious when reached

In which the girls clock up some widths

I was late due to having to scrape (really SCRAPE) ice from the car windscreen.  The car temperature gauge showed the air as -1 and flashed 'WARNING -ICE' at me all the way to the beach.  It was going to be cold!  Joan and Sara already opening up Winter HQ, soon joined by Emma, and, absent for some time, Stefan.  With Stefan choosing to watch from the pebbles, the tide in, and the sea flat, Emma and I decided to go for a width.  Following the water weasel in, we gasped, breastroked for half a width and then settled into some face in crawl.  It was hard to breathe, the water icy around our lungs.  I turned at the wall and set up, faster, for another width.  The tension between speeding up to generate heat and going into oxygen deficit was palpable and it was only due to Stefan's presence on the beach that I felt safe.  At the other wall I checked my watch.  7 minutes.  I was warming up.  Time for a little play before getting out.  Wallowing and dipping took me half way across again.  Might as well finish it.  Although the comfort was a warning sign.  3 widths for me, 2 for Emma.  Twelve minutes.  A quick trip towards France for Sara and some beach fun for Joan.

Flapjacks and honey sandwiches and THE SHAKES!

Swimmers: Joan, Hildi, Emma, Sarah
Lifeguard: Stefan
Air Temp: Freezing
Sea Temp: a guess at 5?
Conditions: Wintery and wonderful

Wednesday 6th Beware the Undertoad

Beware the Undertoad!

On Wednesday three young ladies braved the wind to meet up at the hut of delights.
Emma complaining she had been held up by her son who had wanted to discuss the World Cup...don't ask! 
Joan and Sara remarking on Ollie's scientific breakthrough with his research on multiple melanoma.

Then back to down to earth with Sara reciting the limerick she had written for Paul W's birthday (Emma had missed this the first time round - and, yes, it is still unprintable)!

Enough stalling, get on with swim, already! The tide was on it's way in and the wind was getting up , causing a large swell and powerful undertow. Yes, you guessed it Joan and Emma played on the edge, but Sara was straight in and disappeared into the chop.
Joan was a little worried when she could no longer see Sara's pink cap. However, we realised that at least we could see - it being broad daylight....something which now felt peculiar- being as how we've got so used to swimming in the dark!

As Sara returned to the shore the sun peeped round Telscombe Cliffs, and several very large waves caught her up, pulled her under and spat her out at Joan's feet! Emma and Joan were a little concerned at first, but needn't have been. Sara, smiling as ever, just loved being roughed over by that naughty Undertoad!

Winter birthday...

Should have known something was up when Domino as well as Sara stepped out of the Hill Volvo.  It was going to be a bigger gathering than of late as Paul Winter had had a birthday and so was coming for a swim - complete with subcutaneous winter insulation.

Limerick from Sara which was too rude to write here.  Then a swim for Sara and Paul, a shallower swim and wave ducking from Hildi and Joan and a late entry from James.  Back to the hut for cake and honey sandwiches.

Swimmers: Sara, Paul, Hildi, Joan, James
Support Crew: Domino, Helen
Conditions: Cold but not bitter.  A cold sea.

All mouth & trousers

Hushed conversations on Tuesday night.  Should we? The forecast is bad you know.  Perhaps best to stay abed and recharge the batteries.

However, the inevitable happened.  Joan announced that the grotto would be open for business at 7.00 sharp.  No more indecision.  Bags were packed for multiple activities and then an early night.

Pete began his day with a run along the undercliff.
Joan began hers with a run on the overcliff.

Running along the bottom, Pete could hear crashing and see a distant foaming.  The tide was right out but making its presence felt.  The undercliff however was strangely calm, very little wind and just a tiny drizzle.  The main obstacles being the shingle and puddles left over from what looked to have been a wild night along the front.

Arriving back - Joan and Sara soon appeared and so did dawn.  Almost flick-of-a-switch quick.  The sea was calming now to gentle playful waves but it was still a long way out.  Pete raced down the beach, hoping to get to a swimmable  depth asap but Joan and Sara dawdled, enjoying the moon and the first fly past of cormorants.  Shoulders under and Sara was off straight out as is now her style whilst Pete & Joan frolicked.  Pete swam a little way back with Sara and then, no clock watching required as Joan gave her signal and began the long wade home.

A few widths on the sand are a great way to generate heat again and changing was accomplished shake free once more.  All agreed that the sea had warmed and estimated it to be around 6 degrees with an air temp of 8 degrees.  More cormorants passed along with some gull which Sara readily identified.  the grotto becomes more convivial with each passing week and we will all be truly sorry when Joan has to hand back the keys in the Spring.

Swimmers:  Joan, Sara, Pete
Missed swimmers: Emma & Hildi

Sea temp: about 6 degrees
Air temp: 8 degrees
Weather conditions: All mouth & trousers - fine in the end

Snowbound but the flag is flown

Wed 23rd Jan

Just a brief note to record that Emma, Joan & Sara braved the ice, while Hildi & Pete were both incapable (due to snow).

S'now or never!

This swim had been trailed about as much as Cameron's speech on Europe. But in the event proceeded with far less fuss and was more satisfying.  The wires had been buzzing for days regarding the possibility of an elusive "snow swim" and today, all those disparate variables came crashing together. It was Saturday, the snow was lying nicely, Emma & Hildi were available and Pete could get the car out of his road.  The excitement mounted as Pete, Hildi and Elsie the insatiable sledger waited cold and impatiently on the beach for Emma to appear.  

When she did, it was with a photographer in the shape of Richard, her partner.  The combined photographic skills of Richard and Elsie were going to ensure that the event was suitably recorded. Just after this, we were pleased to see the arrival of more spectators in the shape of Paul & Helen.

We first had to pose on real snow just to prove that it really happened and then the run down to the sea which was considerately on it's way in and so not such a long trek through the icy stuff to get to a swimmable depth. In fact was there just enough water available to record a width?   Pete did a quick calculation and concluded that gangrene would probably have set in before he even got to the flagpole today and so all decided on a leisurely splash, crawl, breast stroke and float instead.  It was whilst we were floating that Hildi pointed out something that we were unlikely to see again - people sledging on top of the cliffs as we were lying luxuriating in the sea.

With no Joan available to tip us the wink that we had done enough, Pete was the first to suggest that we had had our fun.  Emma, in a world of her own (or a world of pain?), seemed oblivious and had to be instructed to come ashore.  Changing was completed with due haste but without undue shakes. Tea was enjoyed with the satisfaction of a goal achieved.

Swimmers: Hildi, Emma, Pete

Photographers: Richard, Elsie, Paul assisted by Helen

Air temp: minus 1 degree

Sea: No Joan, No temp taken

Conditions: Just widthable

  

S-NO-w go for Snow Swim

Snow was forecast.  Mixed feelings about this among the SSF crew.  Sara wanted it to hold off so she could work, Hildi wanted a Gold swim, Pete no doubt hoping no white stuff would dump onto Saltdean beach on a school day, in fact he went so far as to try to twists the 'rules' to say that Gold swims are not permissable on Fridays.

In the event there was only a white sky as the dawn broke on our torchlit antics. A mid tide and a strong swell and wind meant that only the wetsuited and experienced Sara was able to enter the water for a proper swim, while Hildi 'did a Joan' and Joan... well, she shone the torch keeping check on Sara, while paddling and enjoying the morning.  Back to the hut for Sara to try to hold off the shakes with honey sandwiches and hot tea.  Hildi opting for hot chocolate and Joan vegetable broth.  Hildi sped off to school (stupidly leaving her swimming kit) and left the others (sorry) to lock up.  And, guess what?  Almost as soon as she returned home, those white flakes began to drift from the sky.  By the time she reached Brighton and work there was a winter-wonderland and her facebook feed was all about trying to get a snow swim at lunchtime.  But unfortunately not possible.  It tantilises us another day!

Swimmers: Sara (wetsuit)

'Joaners': Hildi, Joan

Conditions: warmer but rougher than of late

Joan demonstrates cold water etiquette

Something wrong with the windscreen.  Scrape off the frost but still opaque.  Yes, another layer, frozen on hard.  Permafrost removed and nicely warmed by heated seats, Pete arrived to a scene of utter quiet and stillness.

A 4x4 descending gingerly announced Joan's arrival with Emma soon after.  The grotto took longer than usual to open up - frozen locks and once open, the thermometer on the door stood at minus one.

There followed a piece of co-ordinated undressing, so slick that it really could become a demonstration event at Rio.  No-one wishing their fellows to be exposed for a second longer that necessary, we were all ready for the off.  Joan and Emma sped off on their horned heels with Pete and his delicate soles treading gingerly after.  However, exclamations of pain soon alerted Pete to the state of the beach - it was frozen, presenting a field of petrified dips and hillocks which all negotiated carefully and so to the sea which wasn't where it has been for a while.

The tide was out, making the bid for deep water a deliciously tortuous walk though squelchy muddy sand with languid waves breaking over knees and thighs delivering a fresh cold dousing each time.
Enough - Joan was in and so all had to follow.  Bearing in mind Paul's definition of a "proper attempt at swimming", all had shoulders under and with the absence of Ollie, a quietness descended.  Swimming, floating then sighing as the initial pain subsided, the night was turning to day and the rosy glow this time came from the heavens.

But how long to stay?  What constitutes a decent amount of time at these temperatures?  The problem was solved by Joan who decided that she had had enough and began sprinting for the shore.  Dry land reached, the thermometer was lowered into the sea, there now being sufficient light to read by and double checked and confirmed as 3.5 degrees.

The beach was climbed carefully again and  this time the dressing was distinctly un co-ordinated, with everyone for themselves, thanks to Joan once more for the warm shower - lending an alternative meaning to the term "fill your boots".  Warm tea and conversation - a wonderful start to the day with a fly past of cormorants to complete the picture.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Pete
In: 7.15
Out: 7.20
Water temp: 3.5 degrees
Air temp: minus 1
Sea: Dense, lazy and out

Another birthday?

The darkness is lit by bike lights, torches and car headlamps. It's as if the kings have arrived bearing gifts to worship. The beach hut even has the feel of the stable in a Christmas tableau. All have come to wish Sara the water weasel a happy birthday.

Twin limericks from Jon (read by hildi) and Joan. Then into the sea! Sara enthusiastically heading out with Joan and paul. Hildi, Ollie and Emma more reticent but then Ollie deciding to dive in. Unfortunately almost as quick out but we know that sleep deprivation and stress affects tolerance to the cold and he is a new dad. A few widths and some swimming and watching the sunrise. Could have stayed in all day.

Out, via the pebbles for those of us knocked over by rogue waves, and then cake and hot drinks. Tea bread from Helen and nutty fruit cake from Sara.  Discussion about the temperature and the predicted drop in it. Maybe a chance for a gold swim next week? Then off to school and work and a weekend of birthday celebrations.

Swimmers (suited): paul W, James, Sara

Swimmers (au naturale): Emma, Ollie, hildi, Joan

Spectators: Helen, domino

Limerick 1

An artist whose first love was water

Was not fond of the songs of cole porter.

She preferred to hear Lemmy,

Or Moore, Gaz, not Demi,

Or Maidens, `Bring your daughters to the slaughter`.

Saltdean Cougar Loveshack

Emma and Pete met up by the lido and both remarked on the mildness of the day, it was also still and so a leisurely swim was anticipated.

Only a few steps were needed however before the sea announced itself through the megaphone of the tunnel.  No wind but a playful surf with tide almost in, changed the anticipated activity upwards on the scale to that of "challenging".

Arriving at the hut, Sara was already disrobing in eagerness before Joan had fully opened up shop.

It was at this point that Sara spotted the chaise long at the back and wondered at the carpet on the wall, Emma commented that a chandelier would be appropriate since surely this was a cougar's lair.  Having said that, the photo shows something more akin to a down-town Delhi haberdashery.

Enough of the accommodation, it was still dark and in spite of Pete's worry about the return of the ghostly legs from Anita Jones' Locker, all rushed down the beach with Joan in charge of the torch.
The waves reared up and crashed and sucked, Exocet Sara spotted a gap and was instantly heading due south. The beam of Joan's torch following her until the blackness swallowed her up.  Pete, unwisely abandoning goggles took a bit longer to find a temporary lull then an unexpectedly large one took him ready or not.

Squeals and giggles from the shore indicated that the others were thinking twice.  With no sign of Sara, Pete decided that widths or at least one was a possibility but approaching the groyne was a tricky business.  Doing heads up breast stroke was difficult but necessary without goggles, it took longer than usual to reach the other side.  Meanwhile, the girls continued to run in and out of the surf - this must just constitute a swim(?) and Sara arrived back with croissants for all.

Pete was preparing for a frolic in the surf with Sara but was upended again and sucked back - time for discretion and, dumped further up the beach on the next wave, legged it away from clutching fingers.

All agreed that it was "uncommonly mild", the sea didn't feel at all cold and there were no post Yoda shakes either.  A really short, vigorous and pleasant outing.

Swimmers: Joan, Emma, Sara, Pete

Time in: 7.10
Time out: 7.20
Air temp: 9 degrees
Sea temp: 6.5 degrees