Dark and stormy
Cold and grey
Sunrise
Cormorants fly past
Oyster catchers skim away
And Sara is at play.
Jaws white horses
'Let's take a chance'
Ducking and diving
Croissants are beckoning
And she's off to France.
Gardening, allotments
Squashes yellow and red
Chickens honeybees
Flapjacks chocolate brownies
Sea Swim Fitness is well-fed.
Seaweed laver and nori
Triptych on easel
Dogfish purse on shingle
Nude women tingle
The artist
And our own water weasel.
Wednesday, 11 January 2012
Friday, 6 January 2012
"I got proper whacked"
"I got proper whacked"...That was the line that came out of one of the swimmers mouths today as we took our chances against the big pounding waves breaking on the shore, to dash across a gap in those waves, and make it to safety just 10m out. But who would say a line like that? I wonder....
Perhaps a white-legged landscaper going in for the first time up to his knees (which itself heralded a cheer from his companions)? surely not, he was more worried about blinding people....; perhaps an experienced sea maiden, who has nipped between these sorts of waves on this beach for two decades?...surely not, the quality of the food at the pre-xmas drinkies gathering puts her in a different class not using that sort of language.....; Perhaps the Portugese man-o-war, swimming his first winter non-suited? surely not, he is just too lovely and focussed on making sure others get in and out safely to worry about his own condition....; Perhaps the grey-headed big girls blouse (or 'illfitting ladies upper garment' as Domino later defined) who usually winces at the cold, but has a tendency to break ranks and charge in first?...well this being the case again today I don't think it could be him; Ah, I know, perhaps it was the scull-capped water weasal herself, suddenly allowing the water to get one back on her, even at last she (the sea) thought, I mean these two have become very firm friends as she is in water more than out of it these days... but something tells me no.....; I know, got it, I remember now.....its the recently head-teacher-in-waiting qualified, most educated, commander of the english word etc etc, and Doctor, amongst us, thats right, she said it :-). But sometimes it shows that perfect english and grammar like what I do, just doesn't cut the mustard. So, it left me thinking,( heavens, a bit heavy for a Friday), this is the first of some quotes that I will be posting on the site for followers and visitors to enjoy...what this space.
After joining us in the water, Hildi, Sara, Alex and Ollie made a feeble attempt at swimming a width, but the now 7 degree water was getting to our cores. Joan and Domino satisfied with waters edge activities looked to be 'enjoying' it as literally only SSF know how. .After some very accomplished exiting we were suddenly joined by Sharon on the beach going for a jog, sporting her new xmas running kit (where did she spring from), she jogged off after some damp hugs and left the rest of us shivering, blaspheming and swearing our way to fully dressed. Time passed with old mince pies (again) and some hot drinks. With good wkds wished to all, we departed, with next wednesday in mind - Sara's last dip for a while so a bumper turnout hoped for (where isPaul C?), a limerick on the cards, and a general farewell to be had. see ya next time!
swimmers: Domino, Sara, Joan, Ollie, Hildi, Alex
swimmers missed: kamakaze Pete
in 7:35
out 7:45
conditions: beautiful sunrise, golden sky, knacker-bashing cold
Perhaps a white-legged landscaper going in for the first time up to his knees (which itself heralded a cheer from his companions)? surely not, he was more worried about blinding people....; perhaps an experienced sea maiden, who has nipped between these sorts of waves on this beach for two decades?...surely not, the quality of the food at the pre-xmas drinkies gathering puts her in a different class not using that sort of language.....; Perhaps the Portugese man-o-war, swimming his first winter non-suited? surely not, he is just too lovely and focussed on making sure others get in and out safely to worry about his own condition....; Perhaps the grey-headed big girls blouse (or 'illfitting ladies upper garment' as Domino later defined) who usually winces at the cold, but has a tendency to break ranks and charge in first?...well this being the case again today I don't think it could be him; Ah, I know, perhaps it was the scull-capped water weasal herself, suddenly allowing the water to get one back on her, even at last she (the sea) thought, I mean these two have become very firm friends as she is in water more than out of it these days... but something tells me no.....; I know, got it, I remember now.....its the recently head-teacher-in-waiting qualified, most educated, commander of the english word etc etc, and Doctor, amongst us, thats right, she said it :-). But sometimes it shows that perfect english and grammar like what I do, just doesn't cut the mustard. So, it left me thinking,( heavens, a bit heavy for a Friday), this is the first of some quotes that I will be posting on the site for followers and visitors to enjoy...what this space.
After joining us in the water, Hildi, Sara, Alex and Ollie made a feeble attempt at swimming a width, but the now 7 degree water was getting to our cores. Joan and Domino satisfied with waters edge activities looked to be 'enjoying' it as literally only SSF know how. .After some very accomplished exiting we were suddenly joined by Sharon on the beach going for a jog, sporting her new xmas running kit (where did she spring from), she jogged off after some damp hugs and left the rest of us shivering, blaspheming and swearing our way to fully dressed. Time passed with old mince pies (again) and some hot drinks. With good wkds wished to all, we departed, with next wednesday in mind - Sara's last dip for a while so a bumper turnout hoped for (where isPaul C?), a limerick on the cards, and a general farewell to be had. see ya next time!
swimmers: Domino, Sara, Joan, Ollie, Hildi, Alex
swimmers missed: kamakaze Pete
in 7:35
out 7:45
conditions: beautiful sunrise, golden sky, knacker-bashing cold
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
Much too big and rough for anyone other than Pete
I finished my normal 6:30 am jog and headed back to the car. Jogging along the seafront in the darkness is a lovely time spent. Only the odd whirr of a speeding cyclist creeping up on you and making you jump. But today was a little more exciting, as the sea was also trying to join me on the undercliff prom. The waves lashed against the wall, spiling their contents skywards, and then the strong sw wind taking the contents about 30m alng the promenade. Huge clumps of seaweed and I'm sure gerzillions of microscpic life form landing out of its natural place. Too late to worry about all that life gone to waste, I had to return (this time withthe wind behind me) to the advancing SSF bods keen to get their weekly fill. Up to the carpark, and I past Pete, who I realised at that point was unaware of what lay ahead. A high tide with seriously unhappy windy bits. Grabbed my stuff form the car and returned o the beach only to see Pete dragging a large container from the lappnig sea. A ship container about the size of a mini hot tub was beached. Obviously thrown overboard during the night. Its origin was given away by the printing on the side. Portsmouth fishing. I wish they would keep themselves to themselves, I don't know.
Anyhow, I unleashed a thought on Pete as we brought the container up to the top beach (that was after pete had to run back to rescue his ag from being gobbled up some some serious incoming waves). Why don't we go in a thte beach further East which is sheltered by sw winds. Ok, he said, up for anything and the breakers looked hungry for blood on our beach. Soon after, Joan, Sara and Domino (nick named 'the donkey' for this blog) joined us and we marched down to the said alternative beach. Having arrived it didn't look quite as quiet as before, but hey ho, we were there now. we stripped down after a bit of chat and the wind was popping over the groyne giving us a chill. down the equivalent of a red ski run of shingle to the sea ad in we went. well, I say in we went. Pete was first, dodged a couple, dived a couple and was suddenly out there, showing off his masterful waterman skills. Joan next up, tried a couple and the jaws closed on her, avoiding a sudden pulverising she was content with sitting onthe shore and letting it all wash over her. Me next, shoeless I went in to knee deep. I knew a couple more steps and I would reach the shelf and either have to get in or run back. but as a wave broke during me decision, a rush of about 3 ton of single washed over my numbing feet. painfull!!! note to self, wear shoes in wild water. I was beaten back and had to be content with wathcing the master at play already out there. Sara next, opting to follow Joans lead and ooh and ahh'd as the freezig water washed over. Feeling rather wimpish, I gave up and internally gave myself a slap, but some days you just have to know when to give in. Any how, content with watching the huge breakers hit the undercliff wall not 50 meters away, and also loving Pete's attempts at body surfing /dredging the bottom of shingle, I battled to get dressed and once joined safely by the others, tucked into left over mince pies and a whole flask of tea. It was proper cold air temp.
hail the hero of the hour, Pete.
swimmers Pete the pacific creature, Joan the sitter, Sara the ooh-er and Ollie the shoeless wimp.
non swimmers. the cheerful donkey.
in, 7:30
out 7:40
temp, I wouldn't know but my feet felt cold.
conditions: bordering on armageddon.
Anyhow, I unleashed a thought on Pete as we brought the container up to the top beach (that was after pete had to run back to rescue his ag from being gobbled up some some serious incoming waves). Why don't we go in a thte beach further East which is sheltered by sw winds. Ok, he said, up for anything and the breakers looked hungry for blood on our beach. Soon after, Joan, Sara and Domino (nick named 'the donkey' for this blog) joined us and we marched down to the said alternative beach. Having arrived it didn't look quite as quiet as before, but hey ho, we were there now. we stripped down after a bit of chat and the wind was popping over the groyne giving us a chill. down the equivalent of a red ski run of shingle to the sea ad in we went. well, I say in we went. Pete was first, dodged a couple, dived a couple and was suddenly out there, showing off his masterful waterman skills. Joan next up, tried a couple and the jaws closed on her, avoiding a sudden pulverising she was content with sitting onthe shore and letting it all wash over her. Me next, shoeless I went in to knee deep. I knew a couple more steps and I would reach the shelf and either have to get in or run back. but as a wave broke during me decision, a rush of about 3 ton of single washed over my numbing feet. painfull!!! note to self, wear shoes in wild water. I was beaten back and had to be content with wathcing the master at play already out there. Sara next, opting to follow Joans lead and ooh and ahh'd as the freezig water washed over. Feeling rather wimpish, I gave up and internally gave myself a slap, but some days you just have to know when to give in. Any how, content with watching the huge breakers hit the undercliff wall not 50 meters away, and also loving Pete's attempts at body surfing /dredging the bottom of shingle, I battled to get dressed and once joined safely by the others, tucked into left over mince pies and a whole flask of tea. It was proper cold air temp.
hail the hero of the hour, Pete.
swimmers Pete the pacific creature, Joan the sitter, Sara the ooh-er and Ollie the shoeless wimp.
non swimmers. the cheerful donkey.
in, 7:30
out 7:40
temp, I wouldn't know but my feet felt cold.
conditions: bordering on armageddon.
Sunday, 1 January 2012
Sea Swim Fitness welcomes 2012...
And so the year began...I surveyed the empty wine bottles on the kitchen worktop and gazed out the window. The weather looked surprisingly promising although the forecast suggested a deterioration. I had an hour and a half before I would meet the public so better get in to gear. Load the car up, and head on down there. The beach was deserted, a few dog walkers showing the calm before the storm. I began to set up the gazebo, and over the hill came Paul who helped greatly. Soon after, the gang arrived, with bar-b and food being set up. Some very notable fancy dress efforts were unveiled, as people began to sign in. Guest swimmers came forward and it was lovely to see some familiar faces from last year return. Thanks to everyone for supporting the event.
The spectators and swimmers slowly gathered on the beach, perhaps 120 people approx, and I called a pre-swim safety briefing that included a large glug of rum to warm our hearts. Within a minute or two, we siad GO!!! and all galantly trotted into the sea. Cheers from the beach and cameras flashing the hardy souls waded through the advancing breakers. With Fancy dress outfits holding out very well, people enjoyed body surfing and looking around at fellow swimmers. Too many brilliant solo performances to note, so will have to let you see from the pics. Returning to shore I passed topless Christine who was wading in and clearly having a blast. Up to get changed and take in hot drinks, as well as lighting the bar-b. After getting changed it was time to get folks into the tug of war. The huge rope nearly spanned the width of the beach and as we called for two teams everyone came down to get any inch of rope they could. A huge heave ho and the "ladies" team to the west slowly etched out a lead. Eventually winning the first round it turned to best of three. Some additional members added to the team (you sneeks) ensured a second win and humiliating defeat for the "mens" team as they all fell to the floor and were dragged along. I think some payback next year will definitely be on the cards. Then it was the turn of the wonderful people of the club to do what they do best. Eat. All sorts of fayre was on offer including some delicious roast potates from Pete. Special mention to pete for mannig the bar-b and feeding the five thousand. Thanks to everyone for contributing to a lovely feast, the day would not work without all your help. thank you!!!
Proceedings drew to a close understandably as the weather turned for the worst. A clear up operation ensued and we all drifted home on a high, after such a good day. Pics to follow shortly....
swimmers: many
in: 11:30
out 11:50
conditions: fun and messy with a naughty rip tide
The spectators and swimmers slowly gathered on the beach, perhaps 120 people approx, and I called a pre-swim safety briefing that included a large glug of rum to warm our hearts. Within a minute or two, we siad GO!!! and all galantly trotted into the sea. Cheers from the beach and cameras flashing the hardy souls waded through the advancing breakers. With Fancy dress outfits holding out very well, people enjoyed body surfing and looking around at fellow swimmers. Too many brilliant solo performances to note, so will have to let you see from the pics. Returning to shore I passed topless Christine who was wading in and clearly having a blast. Up to get changed and take in hot drinks, as well as lighting the bar-b. After getting changed it was time to get folks into the tug of war. The huge rope nearly spanned the width of the beach and as we called for two teams everyone came down to get any inch of rope they could. A huge heave ho and the "ladies" team to the west slowly etched out a lead. Eventually winning the first round it turned to best of three. Some additional members added to the team (you sneeks) ensured a second win and humiliating defeat for the "mens" team as they all fell to the floor and were dragged along. I think some payback next year will definitely be on the cards. Then it was the turn of the wonderful people of the club to do what they do best. Eat. All sorts of fayre was on offer including some delicious roast potates from Pete. Special mention to pete for mannig the bar-b and feeding the five thousand. Thanks to everyone for contributing to a lovely feast, the day would not work without all your help. thank you!!!
Proceedings drew to a close understandably as the weather turned for the worst. A clear up operation ensued and we all drifted home on a high, after such a good day. Pics to follow shortly....
swimmers: many
in: 11:30
out 11:50
conditions: fun and messy with a naughty rip tide
Friday, 30 December 2011
Let's call this one, 'Goodbye 2011'.
Hildi and Sara arrived under an ink blue sky which promised a beautiful sunrise. Conditions calmer than Wednesday, although air temp only about 5-6.
Soon joined by Joan who told us Alex was expected. A little bit of procrastinating on the beach and then a shadowy figure coming over the pebbles. Was us our leader, Ollie AKA Kim Jong Il, or was he lying in state under the duvet? No, it was Paul, coming for some more cold water training and to show off his new yoda robie.
Lovely swim with lots of jumping over waves (about an hour after low tide with rolling white water so hopefully similar to Sunday for the NYD swim) and some swimming east to west against the current. Ten minutes in then running on the beach and a race to get dressed before the inevitable shakes.
Delicious cake from Alex. Discussions about catering for Sunday (Joan is worried 50 sausages won't be enough. Hildi also has 4 packs of bacon). Camping tables and flasks also allocated.
Can't wait!!!
Swimmers: Hildi, Sara, Joan, alex, Paul.
Swim time: 10 min
Temperature: 8 but it felt much colder
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
In which Hildi realises that she has an addiction
It was dark, windy and precipitous when Hildi arrived in the car park, soon followed by Sarah and her chauffeur, Domino. Walking to the beach, we swapped information on CWA (cold water acclimatisation) - Hildi having got a new swimming book for Christmas (as had Sarah).
Decided to all go up the top to the sheltered area and looked out nervously towards the dark water, watching the rain gust up and down and around in the light from the lampost. Hildi suggested that is might be a bit too rough for swimming, but Joan assured her that it was fine because it was low tide. Hildi suggested it might be a bit cold for swimming, but the others gave a look which said that they weren't even going to answer that. Then Hildi remembered she had a slight post-Xmas cold, so she wouldn't go in, just keep Domino company on the beach. So she lent Joan her gloves and we all headed off.
It was wet and it was windy. Sarah wished briefly that she had her wetsuit, but the two ladies ran across the sand and into the waves. Hildi and Domino watched until Hildi could restrain herself no longer. It looked so much fun and it was cold on the beach. Stripping off and leaving Domino looking like an umpire under a pile of yodas, tracksuits and coats, she ran only in a swimming costume (no boots, no gloves, no hat, no goggles) into the waves. Sarah and Joan, seeing her silhouetted against the cliffs, thought she was 'doing a Steffan' and coming in fully clothed! Soon all three girls were romping about.
Hildi's feet soon cold, she ran out and into her sheepskin boots - continuing up the beach and quickly to get changed. The others more leisurely.
Post swim short-bread and plans for Friday. Hope to see more there. 7.15 meet for 7.30ish swim although it will still be darkish.
Time in: various
Time out: various
Temperature: cold and windy (out), cold and lovely (in)
Swimmers: Joan and Sarah
Paddlers/Rompers: Hildi
Umpire: Domino
On the way back we saw Ollie's advertising campaign for NYD in full swing. Hildi and Joan bringing sausages and bacon. Hope there will be enough!!
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Santa came to play
Well, highly anticipated on this shortest day swim was the appearance of santa, but people were sadly let down by hi as he made final preparations for his forthcoming round the world trip. Something about having to replace a shiny red swimsuit for someone as the last one was bought by a lady in Rottingdean....I'm not sure of the details.
But on the beach, Ollie, Hildi and Paul C huddled in rather a clam air that was relatvely mild for this time of year. The se waves hit the shore over and over again inthe same place at high tide, which had created a shelf that was going to prve a little tricky to get in and out. Stefan joined us soon after, and we sighed relief as there would be someone to pick up the two halves if we got cut in two by the big bashers.
Next, the headlamps of Joan's range rover gave her away up on the ridge, and at the same time two dark figures walked over the stones towards us. It was Santa's little helpers Pete and Alison!. Pete wasted no time in setting up his Santa's grotto with bells and music..."jingle bell, jingle bell jingle bell rock.." he was caught in the act! see pic.
Then another dark figure emerged from the tunnel, this time with a huge sack. Could this be Santa himself? He looked laden with gifts, but we all agreed we hadn't been good enough this year to warrant some face time with santa himself, and as the figure moved nearer it was clear that he was clean shaven and not as "well fed" as we imagine Santa to be...of course...DOMINO!! Without his beloved Sara, we all wished her well in her absence and know that she'll be back as soon as possible leading the charge to the sea...
Domino promptly suggested that we delve into his sack and take a pressie, so we did and we were rewarded with homemade goods to take home. Thank you Sara and Domino!!
On to the swim, after a couple of runs up the beach we headed in, picking the spot that seemed to be less big wavey, although that spot moved up and down the beach depending on when you ooked, so it was all a bit of a lottery. I sensed a gap in the waves and went for it, closely followed by Pete, then Joan, Paul and Hildi. Wearing my santa's hat in the sea was lovely. Not only did I not get my face and head wet, it kept me strangley warm, although my fingers said this is cold!. Later we found that it was 9 degrees, but it felt colder!
A few yelps of ooh! and eek! as we patted about until we got the lovely tingley feeling of the blood rushing back thrugh the body warming it, after 6 or 7 minutes. With our free euphoria hit we regrouped and made our exits. Paul opting for a few more strokes in prep for his Latvian adventure...
Once out we had more pics, and a lovely hot shower (thanks Joan) and were treated to further presents, this time from Hildi. We had to open them before we got dressed, so all thinking it would be a hand warmer or something, we opened them to find new pants for everyone! how amazing. And not just any pants, these were comedy pants. I would say super man had his thumb up my @rse, but you had to be there to fully understand the joke :). I can't remmeber everyone elses, but I remember something along the lines of sex, drugs and sausage rolls....
more tunes, Pete's homeade mince pies, and hot drinks and before we new it, it was time to leave. thanks everyone, have a lovely xmas and see you on New Years Day!! (if not before on a Wed or Fri)
But on the beach, Ollie, Hildi and Paul C huddled in rather a clam air that was relatvely mild for this time of year. The se waves hit the shore over and over again inthe same place at high tide, which had created a shelf that was going to prve a little tricky to get in and out. Stefan joined us soon after, and we sighed relief as there would be someone to pick up the two halves if we got cut in two by the big bashers.
Next, the headlamps of Joan's range rover gave her away up on the ridge, and at the same time two dark figures walked over the stones towards us. It was Santa's little helpers Pete and Alison!. Pete wasted no time in setting up his Santa's grotto with bells and music..."jingle bell, jingle bell jingle bell rock.." he was caught in the act! see pic.
Then another dark figure emerged from the tunnel, this time with a huge sack. Could this be Santa himself? He looked laden with gifts, but we all agreed we hadn't been good enough this year to warrant some face time with santa himself, and as the figure moved nearer it was clear that he was clean shaven and not as "well fed" as we imagine Santa to be...of course...DOMINO!! Without his beloved Sara, we all wished her well in her absence and know that she'll be back as soon as possible leading the charge to the sea...
Domino promptly suggested that we delve into his sack and take a pressie, so we did and we were rewarded with homemade goods to take home. Thank you Sara and Domino!!
On to the swim, after a couple of runs up the beach we headed in, picking the spot that seemed to be less big wavey, although that spot moved up and down the beach depending on when you ooked, so it was all a bit of a lottery. I sensed a gap in the waves and went for it, closely followed by Pete, then Joan, Paul and Hildi. Wearing my santa's hat in the sea was lovely. Not only did I not get my face and head wet, it kept me strangley warm, although my fingers said this is cold!. Later we found that it was 9 degrees, but it felt colder!
A few yelps of ooh! and eek! as we patted about until we got the lovely tingley feeling of the blood rushing back thrugh the body warming it, after 6 or 7 minutes. With our free euphoria hit we regrouped and made our exits. Paul opting for a few more strokes in prep for his Latvian adventure...
Once out we had more pics, and a lovely hot shower (thanks Joan) and were treated to further presents, this time from Hildi. We had to open them before we got dressed, so all thinking it would be a hand warmer or something, we opened them to find new pants for everyone! how amazing. And not just any pants, these were comedy pants. I would say super man had his thumb up my @rse, but you had to be there to fully understand the joke :). I can't remmeber everyone elses, but I remember something along the lines of sex, drugs and sausage rolls....
more tunes, Pete's homeade mince pies, and hot drinks and before we new it, it was time to leave. thanks everyone, have a lovely xmas and see you on New Years Day!! (if not before on a Wed or Fri)
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