30/12/2014 – Ticking off resolutions with the united nations of B&B

The morning began quietly enough around the beach that never sleeps.  A skateboarder heading south between the Norfolk pines.

 

The final salutations at Free Range Yoga.

 

Found the crowd!!  The swell is certainly rising at  B&B central.

 

There is lots of chatter about ‘new year resolutions’.  Actually people are talking about their 2014 resolutions. . .  It seems swimming with the B&B might have been one of those just managing to be ticked off before the year ends.

This family are new to the group today.

 

A goregous array of pink, blue and steel grey.  Most certainly this seasons colour palette for swim fashionistas.

 

Jill and Jane are smiling. . . that is a good thing.  There were 53 new swimmers this morning.

 

Here are just some of the new swimmers queued up to sign in and have their photo taken.

 

Meanwhile at the ramp, the migration to the sea is in full flow.

 

Simon has been experimenting with alternative ways of wearing his swim cap.  Fetching don’t you think?

 

And still the new swimmer line continues. . .

 

The squad has crossed the weedy line into the slightly less weedy sea.

 

And still the flow continues at the ramp.

 

By 7.03, Lesley takes a break to catch up with Fifi.  “Swim early if you want to avoid the crowd”, is the advice.  Although, lately the number of swimmers joining the 6.30am swim is also growing.

 

The sand whiting watch on.  Shrouded by the weed they stay close to the sand to avoid being trampled.

 

All was calm as we entered the sea with only a few small waves to negotiate.

 

And who knows what happened at the point!  There were groups scattered everywhere.

Now this is Suzie; we had the best swim across the bay.  She tells me she is more of a pool swimmer, but has swum with us about 20 or so times.  At the pace Suzie swims, perhaps she is a contender in tomorrow’s final of the Triple Crown?

 

These lovelies are loving the warm water (21.5) and the glorious sunshine.

 

While waiting at Shelly, there is always time for a little stroke coaching.

 

Proof that the family swimming together – don’t they look thrilled.  Mum slipped out of the frame because she didn’t swim. . .

 

And this is what the mob looked like from the eastern end.  Massive!!  Surely more than 288!!

 

These crabs are trying to have a quiet breakfast amid all the excitement.

 

 

And after a booming ‘Let’s Go’, they’re off!!

As there really isn’t any reason to rush, some hang about to enjoy to quiet that follows the frenzy.  Elizabeth, in blue, is one of this year’s remarkable swimmers.  No matter the conditions, she is stoically out there!  Very inspiring.

 

This group from Belgium were thrilled to have made it to Shelly.

 

And more than a little surprised when Ian dropped in. . .  We explained Ian a bit later and they were ok.

 

 

Visibility is improving – slightly.  This flathead was trying to blend into the sand.

 

A Wobbegong in the reeds.

 

This one was so far down that Mauricio had to take the camera!  It is amazing to watch him dive so deep and not startle the resting Wobbegong!

 

 

This is Mauricio following the Dusky Whalers and the Fiddler Ray.  There are many Duskys already in the Bay.

 

The old wives gather as old wives do.

 

With so much excitement for one morning, it is best to take a leaf out of Toby’s book and have a rest.  After all, tomorrow is New Year’s Eve which leaves only one more day to complete your outstanding resolutions.

 

 

Have a wonderful day and enjoy yourself.

 

Mary

 

 

Just a few B&B 2015 Calendars available!

Pick up one of the few remaining brilliant 2015 calendars for just $15!!

The B&B Calendar is the perfect way to keep track of important dates like summer swims, badge ceremonies, start of the winter swims….  You can pick one up at the swim (cash only), or online – Click here – with an option to have it posted or collected from Ian.

 

Summer Swims

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.  Keep an eye on the blog for the next date for the 10km swim.  John always welcomes a few volunteers to help as support crew so please let him if you can help. 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.  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:   288 and counting. . .

Newbies:   53 counted!!!

Temp:         21.5

Sunrise:      5.46am

Sunset:       8.08pm