22/04/2014 – All too beautiful

Well just another day in paradise.

The rising tide of swimmers was a slow to reach its peak today. Perhaps the diet of chocolate, Easter buns and good cheer has sent us into a sleepy phase.

A chilly start as the gauge tells me it is 12 degrees, but thankfully our ever reliable Mr Bond assures the gathering crowd of eager swimmers – all 140 or there about – that following a good shake of the thermometer, the final reading is 21.6 degrees.  Tropical!!

A lone swimmer takes a moment to ask the sea gods for a blissful swim.

And it was pure bliss – although it is always a bit chilly at the start!

You can tell the weather is changing because at Shelly everyone either cuddles,

or stays low in the water to avoid the chill.

Except for Lips.  He laughs at the cold. . .

Helen has returned after a few days out of the water!  She had a nasty experience with the huge surf over the weekend.  Do remember, no badges for getting dumped, so swim within your limits!

Loads of fish out today.  Just off the point I even swam with a Dusky Whaler for a few seconds!  No photos ’cause they are sooo camera shy.

and a very tiny Flathead – so cute!

Don’t forget that Friday is the Anzac Day swim.  This is one of the biggest swims in our calendar so be prepared for a huge turn up.  This year the ceremony will be at 8am at Manly, and to be held in conjunction with the Manly Surf Life Saving Club.

And thank you to my friend Robert Marriott for the photo of the seals.  Not taken in Manly but on Kangaroo Island.

See you tomorrow

Mary

The Trivia Night is pretty much sold out!!

There might be a random ticket or two if you are lucky.  So, if you want tickets – and haven’t booked, or have booked (and paid) but now can not attend, please send Ian an email at ugogoyo@gmail.com (copy and paste the address ‘cause this is not a link).

This year we will be joined by the Royal Far West who will be assisting in fundraising for the event, and will receive part of the funds raised on the night.

B&B i-Log

Really if you haven’t been using the B&B i-Log then you must be new!!  Almost 75% of swimmers are now using the B&B i-Log. Log your swim ANYTIME of day using this really efficient and easy way to ensure your swim is recorded in the daily attendance and on the Pacific Challenge. To get started, send an email to Ian Forster ugoboyo@gmail.com (This is not a link so please copy and paste into your email). He will check that your email address is activated on the attendance register then send you info on how to get started.

Staying safe

We have had seen the return of some serious waves and rips this past week!  Were you prepared? 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:  140
Newbie:
Temp:   21.6 degrees

Sunrise: 6.22 am

Sunset: 5.25 pm