24/09/2014 – Inspirational Women – Find A Way

In the past few days I have met two amazing women and I have been inspired equally by them both. One is based overseas, swims and travels, whilst the other is based in Manly, swims and travels.

Both are young and in fact many of  you may know both of these famous women.

By pausing, listening and connecting I have learnt a great deal and have been inspired equally by them both.

Firstly, I met Barbara Vickers last Friday morning, a local resident of Manly, straight after her first swim of the season. Barbara has swum all her life and her passion for swimming and assisting others provided her with the opportunity to travel Australia, instructing coaches on the best way to coach children in swimming, as part of the group that initiated the “Learn to Swim” Programme in Australia.

Barbara is a keen and current member of Manly Masters and has successfully competed in many countries of the world. I understand that a number of Barbara’s friends swim with the Bold & Beautiful, yet for those who have not met Barbara yet, I would encouage you to say hello one sunny morning in Manly.

Barbara Vickers

Secondly, Diana Nyad, who came to mind again on Monday, through discussions with a friend around the concept of “Find A Way” and “Never, Ever Give Up”.

Diana, was born in New Your City and whom in September 2013, after four failed attempts, swam 110 miles (180 km) from Cuba to Florida in 53 hours, to be the first person ever, to complete such an epic swim.

In the pitch-black night, stung by jellyfish, choking on salt water, singing to herself, hallucinating … Diana Nyad just kept on swimming.

And that’s how she finally achieved her lifetime goal as an athlete: an extreme 110-mile swim from Cuba to Florida.

Hear her story on Ted Talks Diana Nyad: Never, ever give up

Diana Nyad

 Now for some more inspirational women.

Lindsay

Heading Out

Shelley Beach

Mel, Julie & Jen

Smiles All Round After a Super Swim

World Lifesaving Champion – Nanette Crawford

Nanette Crawford wins at the World Lifesaving Championships at le Grande Motte in the South of France.

First Place in the Surf Race (60-64)

Third Place in the Board Race (60-64)

Congratulations Nanette, from everyone at B&B on your outstanding results.

Winter Badge Ceremony – A Great Success

Not only was the Winter Badge Ceremony a great morning of community and celebration, we also collectively raised $1300 for Royal Far West with an attendance of over 260 people.

Royal Far West extend their sincere thanks to everyone at B&B for their support.

Special thanks from everyone at B&B to those behind the scenes that contributed to make the morning run smoothly and fun for all.

Are You Prepared for the Return of the Surf  ?

Now that the Winter Badge Challenge has been completed, whats your next challenge ?

For those  swimming through Winter, we have been blessed with generally calm conditions, excepting only about  two weeks of wild weather. Yet as we move through Spring and towards Summer, we may see more surf on a regular basis.

Yet as you look around, a number of the swimmers seem to just take it all in their stride, regardless of conditions.

It may be a great time to extend your friendships within B&B and listen and learn to some of their strategies to both swim in the surf and remain safe.

Bold & Beautiful in Numbers

Regulars: 94

Newbies: 3

Water Temperature: 18.2 degrees

Weather: Blue skies and sunshine

Rah Score: solid 7.5

Enjoy a wonderful Wednesday

David