The weather reporter whispered in my ear that it was a day to roll over and stay in bed. Rain, messy surf, super tide at 6.55am due to the proximity of the moon this month – closest in 70 years – were reasons given to pull those bed sheets a little higher. However, we ocean swimmers revel in such conditions don’t you think?
All was fine until there were reports of blue bottles.
We all waited timorously under cover until the early swimmers returned with an update.
No one was too keen to go near the water.
Phil said he wasn’t worried – he had his wetsuit. How smug. . .
Wonderful Elizabeth took up position at the top of the ramp to inform those who sometimes feel the need to depart early. We wouldn’t want them to have any nasty surprises!!
Henrietta, Dorset and Terry were thrilled to hear that there were just a few lurking in the shallows around Shelly.
Off we went into the super high tide. Just a few waves to greet us, while providing enough distraction to take our minds off the lurking (blue) challenges. Honestly, there were jimbles during the week (in fact I’m sure there were a few lurking around the point), and now blue bottles! This is supposed to be that lovely stinger free period.
It was a rock and roll swim to Shelly. Here are two of today’s newbies smiling as they sight Shelly just a few metres away. Well done ladies!
The group didn’t seem so big today. No birthdays either, although there is always someone offering to do the ‘Let’s go’. . .
You know we are heading into the summer season because the blog tarts start to show up in Shelly.
More the same rock and roll on the way back. Not that Sophia and JK minded.
And it was a much diminished band of doublers today!
No fish sightings because of the very poor visibility, however an Eagle Ray was spotted hanging around the point.
There was a post swim rush for sustenance from the boxes of yoghurt provided by Chobani. Returning swimmers snapped up all the goodies in minutes!
Then everyone seemed to disappear, leaving the coffee queue miraculously tiny. Those that remained were in for a treat. At least three or four Humpbacks whales frolicked just off shore for about 20 minutes. Sorry the images are a little fuzzy, but you can see the tail!!
And if you are looking for something to do on Sunday, come to the Barangaroo Street Fair! Loads of activities for everyone plus you will even see what I have been working on for the past few years. Details Here
Have a spectacular Saturday.
Mary
B&B Christmas Party – don’t miss out – BOOK EARLY
The B & B Christmas Party this year will be held on Tuesday 13th December at 6.30 pm in the Moonshine Bar (2nd Floor) at the Steyne Hotel. All swimmers and partners/friends are welcome (no under 18s unfortunately). The theme again this year is simply “Christmas”. So come dressed in your finest Christmas paraphernalia. Lots of fun and dancing are guaranteed, with music by a fantastic rock band “Gluteus Maximus”. The cost is $10 per head, with all proceeds going to the running costs of the B&B. Book HERE now! Don’t miss out on this fun event, numbers are limited.
Dont forget
Staying safe
Remember that there are no badges for scaring yourself silly! While it is great to extend your boundaries, it is important to know your limits. Also, if you have a bit more experience, keep an eye out for new swimmers who might need company. Do read these excellent tips on staying safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here.
5 comments
LSA, HKTQ
November 12, 2016 at 2:36 pm
You covered it all, Mary and great pics!
A tad scary being one of the early swimmers into the rock ‘n roll and bluey-waters with Storchy, but so beautiful out there…. flew to Shelly and then struggled all the way back!
Best part – watching the long whale-of-a-show whilst sipping tea. A mother and a couple of babies we thought.
Lips, no wimping out tomorrow!
Shelley K
November 12, 2016 at 6:00 pm
I admit it, I rolled over. I’m not proud of myself. But reading the blog makes me feeeeel like I swam, thanks Mary
Lesbubs
November 12, 2016 at 6:06 pm
Lol me too Shelley..
Can’t believe blueys are here already! Great about the whale 🐳 wow!!
Lisa B
November 12, 2016 at 6:29 pm
I too, chose the sleep in over the swim out – I was weary! Mary it was a great blog and I was kind of happy I’d taken a day off. I have a big phobia about blueys!
Edwina
November 12, 2016 at 10:35 pm
I hope the whales are back tomorrow and the eagle ray. A group of us swam this arvo and had no blue bottles around.