I have to confess, that thinking about today’s blog after the news of the tragic end to the city’s siege I don’t know where to begin. Perhaps a little quote from an old Roman can help set the tone.
It is indeed a precious privilege to each day share the joy of the daily swim.
The surf appears to have calmed as there are no waves crashing around the point.
Among the gathering crowd the daily routine begins with the decision of surf or halfway.
Not that the waves were huge, just lots of them, which when combined with the rip and the chop…
Even before the 7am call there are keen beans making their way into the water.
Marc, the Spaniard, is pleased with the swim. Choppy enough to give you a good workout. Plus at 21.4 degrees the water is warm enough that you really don’t need a wetsuit!
Meanwhile over at halfway, the colourful swimsuit brigade approach the bumpy surf with style and caution.
Shelly Beach is stunning in the morning sunlight.
Looks like the dancing queens have replaced the muscle men doing push-ups!!
Visibility is still very poor – although I did hear someone say they saw a fish!
The only marine creatures I encountered were a couple of big, white jellyfish. Recently I was told by a friend studying marine biology that the changing water temperature favours the jellyfish. So I expect we will see many more varities appear in our Bay.
After the ‘washing machine’ like swim, Jenny enjoys a frollic when she returns to Manly.
Each day we have the opportunity to share this amazing start to our day with beautiful and amazing people and remarkable creatures of the sea (except for the nasty stinging ones).
Today I am reminded of how very grateful I am for this precious privilege.
Mary
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Summer Swims
While last weekend’s swims were cancelled due to the conditions, John will look for another date for the 10km swim – so keep an eye on the blog. John does need a few volunteers to help as support crew so please comment below or contact him if you can help. The 6km swims – depending on conditions – run each Saturday in summer. They usually follow on from the 7 am Shelly swim with a gathering then northward haul from The Point. Watch this space for updates.
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. Do read these excellent tips on staying safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here.
The Stats
Regulars: 89 and counting. . .
Newbies: ??
Temp: 21.4
Sunrise: 5.39am
Sunset: 8.02pm
5 comments
Jane
16/12/2014 at 12:18 pm
Such a thoughtful and appropriate opening to the Blog Mary. We are very privileged to be in this beautiful corner of Sydney and to have the love and support of this amazing group of people.
Lips
16/12/2014 at 1:29 pm
Well said Mary. Appreciated every bit of chop hitting my face this morning.
Helen and Sky caught at Halfway. Priceless.
Management
16/12/2014 at 1:30 pm
10km swim will be held this Saturday – conditions permitting. As usual, there will also be a 6km swim. See John Bond for details. Just a reminder, if you want to do the long distance swims, can you please swim with the main group. This is a collective activity, and particularly on the longer swims it is safer to swim with a group. Thanks.
Shelley Keeble
16/12/2014 at 1:35 pm
Hi John, just confirming our conversation last Saturday that I am available to transport supplies to South Curl Curl for the half way point of the 10km swim on Saturday. I’ll check in with you on Thursday morning for instructions. Shelley Keeble
Jill Rankin
16/12/2014 at 4:03 pm
Agree Mary and thanks for today’s blog, how lucky we are to be safe and free, yesterday was such a tragedy for our beautiful City and for so many people
Reminds you to keep loving every minute of every day…