It really was a beautiful swim! One of the best all year. The water was 60F/15C… flat as glass and the clearest I think I’ve ever seen it!
You could probably see for 20 – 30 feet… that’s what I love about open water swimming, seeing things, even if it is just the rocky bottom and a few small fish… it’s interesting. To use the analogy I often use with running, sure you can run on the treadmill, with no TV or music, and get a good workout, like you do in the pool… or you could run in the trails and see “the great outdoors”! Yes, you might see a rabbit or a deer or a skunk… but that’s cool, it makes your run more interesting and memorable and thought provoking. The same in the water you might see some little fish, or a few big fish, or a shark… okay, you won’t see a shark, but at least it’s more interesting. And if that kind of stuff still freaks you out, which I get, well then you just need to do more open water swimming… and get your head into a different space… because it really is beautiful and interesting. Which makes the swim that much more enjoyable.
Anyway, it was a nice swim.
We had 21 people out… went for a half our out, and a half hour back, about 4k… and out for coffee at Brett’s (Bean There Cafe). And called it a season. Nice.
We were talking at coffee and I was saying, as much as I like open water swimming, I’m glad the season is only as long as it is… from May to September or so. And as much as I just told you how much I don’t like pool swimming… I really don’t mind pool swimming… if only because it is useful… and still social… but also it keeps you in the game and builds anticipation for next spring! I’m sure we could keep going longer, and with 21 people out today there is still a great group that are up for it, but it’s nice to get out when you are on top… when it’s still good and enjoyable. People’s heads aren’t as into it… all the Lake Crossings are done, the LOST Race and all the other open water races are over, the tri season is pretty much over (except for Mel and Bill doing IM Cozumel!) and it just feels like it’s time to move on. It’s fall.
It was a great season… I’d say the best LOST Swimming season ever… and without trying to sound too sappy… it really was fun and interesting and eventful… and the only reason it was so much fun was because we had such a nice big group of people to swim with. So, seriously, thanks for comin’ out!
PS. next swim: noon on New Year’s day at the LOST Beach… for the 2nd annual Polar Bear Dip!!! See you then!
Cheers,
Rob