28/02/2015 – Farewell to February

First of all, can I make a request to every reader of today’s blog.  Each day there is on average over 600 people viewing this blog.  Can every reader rattle their pockets for at least $3, then go onto the RedFeb site – B&B page HERE – and donate that $3!  This gives you the tax donation and a dollar for good measure.  For Heart Research Australia, it will give them additional funds for their vital research into heart disease.  Then we can continue to see lovely Dr Cathie as a swimmer rather than in her professional capacity as a cardiologist!

 

And best of all, we will be able to achieve our target of $3000.  No badges, but lots of glory.

We had a massive turn out for the last day of summer.  The paths were crammed with swimmers heading down to B&B Central totally focused on shaking off the working week routine with a glorious swim.

 

Some approach their pink caps with caution. . .

 

But have no fear!  The colour may be delicate, but like the swimmers who wear them, the caps are ready for anything.

 

Some, like Mr T, are into some serious pink gear.

 

Elizabeth and Gayle are a fearless duo who tackle distance, waves and rocks with gusto!

 

Last preparations before heading through the gentle waves to the point.

 

. . .and still the crowd flows!

 

Here is Lips putting on his best Julie Andrews pose.  Did you know it is 50 years since the Sound of Music was released?

 

The swim over to Shelly was relatively calm!  Visibility is improving, and the temperate is a very comfortable 23.2 degrees.

A colourful display of cozzies and one or two non regulation caps!!!

 

The big birthday bash was to celebrate the remarkable Bruce’s birthday.  His triumphant pose says it all. . .

 

Swimming back over the rocks, the old wives could be seen cruising around.

 

This shot made me think about B&B swimmers hanging about the cafes waiting, and waiting, and waiting for the post swim coffee. . .

 

The Blue Groper darting about – and it really is green although called blue!  This is not like the crazy dress thing going around.

 

The Aquarium – between the point and half-way – is one of the best places to see loads of fish.

 

And fabulous to see Ed again.  He hasn’t swum for three weeks – I think he actually counts the hours and minutes between swims.

 

That is it for February!!  Summer may be almost gone, but the swimming goes on.

Have a great Saturday

 

Mary

 

Important Notice

B&B and REDFEB Heart Research 2015

With $1300 of our $3000 commitment raised – and one day go – there’s more work to be done!  Please donate HERE.

REDFEB is Heart Research Australia’s signature fundraising campaign, raising funds for research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.  They approach sporting groups across Australia, and ask them to log kilometres travelled onto a virtual map.  This year they have several Aussie maps: for cyclists, joggers, swimmers etc – with the mileage circumnavigating the land mass.

 

Help the Surf Boat Girls

If you have admired the dedication of the girls who row for the Manly Surf Club, you can now help them out. For the next two Saturdays, the girls will be running a fundraising barbecue to raise money to compete in the Ocean Thunder, which is an ‘elite’ surf boat competition where the entry fee is $8000. Please assist if you can by buying something to eat at the end of the swim.

B&B Monthly Dinner 

The first B&B monthly dinner for the year will be held on Tuesday 10^th March at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Restaurant, and will include an exclusive wine tasting for B&B members and their friends. Bluewater Restaurant and Fesq Fine Wine Distributors have combined to provide a fabulous meal with four excellent wines to taste during the evening. Ryan, a wine specialist from Fesq, will be on hand to explain the subtleties of each wine.

The cost of the dinner is great value at only $30 a head, which includes the wine plus shared entrees, and a selection of mains to choose from (including a vegetarian option). Glasses of beer or (additional) wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential:  These dinners are very popular and a lot of fun, they are a great way to socialise looking half decent with your fellow B&B’s but they sell out fast so book your spot by click HERE

 

Help Support Shelly the Turtle

A Baking Day will be held on Saturday 14th March to raise funds for Shelly the Turtle’s tracking tag so we can watch where she goes once released, and contribute to research into Green Turtle migration. Any extra funds will go towards turtle rehabilitation programs at SEA LIFE Sanctuary.  Please contribute if you can. Sharnie will be hanging out by the benches on the day please bring baked goods there. Any non-bakers can contribute as consumers on the day!

The Next B&B Swim  School

It’s that time again! Join Pacific Jules coaches Warren and Sarah Anne for an hour in the ocean and learn  to swim with less fight and more flow! This one hour session in the water will help you understand the way your body relates to the water, how to slice through with minimal effort and  naturally build up speed and endurance.

When : Saturday 14 March 9:45-10:45am
Cost : $25
Location : Shelly Beach
Open to everyone and all abilities welcome. What to bring: swim suit, cap, goggles, wetsuit compulsory, water and money for a hot cuppa afterwards! Please email info@pacificjules.com.au for more information or to reserve  your place.

Summer Swims

The very last of the Summer Swims (that means a badge) are scheduled for Saturday 7 March, 2015 – next week. The 6km and 10km swims both start with the normal swim at 7am.

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.

 

The Stats

Regulars:   somewhere between 199 and 240

Newbies:   15

Temp:         23.2

Sunrise:      6.42am

Sunset:       7.33pm