There were no newbies today. Maybe they were the sensible ones
In case you were wondering, yes the water was cold. Just ask the very bold and very beautiful swimmers who braved the frigid depths with no wetsuit. No stats on this, but around 250 swimmers lined up for their therapeutic dose of vitamin sea. The change public change rooms (for those who braved the gross obstacle in the entry way – council really needs to lift its game, and thank you to the early swimmer who spread sand over the offending lumps) were colder still, and the cold water showers felt warmer than the ocean we had just swum in.
But enough niggling. When greeted by such gorgeous conditions, who can be grumpy? This must be why the vibes among the swimmers in the morning are generally so positive.
The cold conditions did not deter the Drinks Express from their early foray. Here they are at Shelley. 
On the way to Manly I saw that South Curl Curl had already been hit by the southerly swell and the surf there was quite big. I wondered how it would be in our little corner.
Still almost glassy just before 7am
Does it get much better than this? Apart from 15 degrees that is……
Bold and very beautiful WOWs contemplating the trials ahead. Not looking too worried, ladies.
The wait at the point for the Let’s Go was brief. Quote of the day is “my face is frozen”. Winterfell has nothing on this morning.
Still smiling…
And they’re off (wrong way, buddy)
The stay at Shelley was similarly brief. Today is Matt’s birthday. Happy birthday Matt. I bet you are grateful to the considerate swimmers who gave you your birthday splashes after the let’s go.
Even though the conditions are still quite calm in the bay, the swell has started to churn up the sand, so visibility is not quite as good as it has been. It was still good enough for some to spot the 2 Grey Nurse sharks residing in CTB. I am trying hard to get over not having seen one yet and not take it personally.
The vegetation on the rocks is fascinating
As are the watery residents
The delightful eaters of stingers. Love your work, yellowtail
Fortunately the PJs are not so snobby
Lisa kindly offered to babysit the gorgeous Audrey while her Mum, Naomi had a swim. Here are Lisa and Audrey at breakfast at Hakan’s (with Melise in the background). Photo posted with permission. You were so well behaved Audrey, you can come back any time.
I have been listening to Paul Kelly’s new album, Life is Fine. A sentiment echoed by many B&B swimmers I’m sure. The album is a delight.
Have a great day everyone, and stay safe in the water
B&B Badge info: (be quick!)
The winter swimming season runs from 1 June to 31 August, and to qualify for your winter badge, you must:
- swim at least 20 times during this period
- swim in at least 7 different weeks
- log your swims
To qualify for the WWW badge (winter without wetsuit) you must complete all of the above without wearing a wetsuit or any other form of bodily thermal enhancement (don’t forget to check the “without wetsuit” button on the log in screen).
11 comments
Kerry
19/08/2017 at 1:28 pm
Nice one Anne 🙂
Shelley K
19/08/2017 at 1:37 pm
Frostily fabulous fare my friend…fanks!
Elizabeth
19/08/2017 at 1:52 pm
Fingers just about thawed si can type – beautiful photos Anne, as always
Lisa B
19/08/2017 at 2:12 pm
Lovely and lighthearted blog Anne. It was freezing but there is something about the numb, tingling sensation as it rises up your body as you enter the water that is completely invigorating. Numb fingers made it impossible for some to put on certain items of clothing this morning. Thanks to all the helpers in the ladies change rooms. Happy birthday Matt, I hope you have a fabulous day. I loved babysitting beautiful Audrey! What a delight she is. I’m available anytime Naomi!
Jenny ((:
19/08/2017 at 2:22 pm
Great blog, Anne.
Happy Birthday Matt 🎉🎉
Lainey
19/08/2017 at 3:26 pm
Love that photos of the Wows. Really lovely blog and photos Anne. Another new blogger who makes blogging look easy. I only saw a glimpse of the larger Grey Nurse today. Not long enough to see his teeth!
John
19/08/2017 at 4:03 pm
The vegetation on the rocks, a type of cunjevoi or tunicata. There are many types but this looks very much like “hoya” or sea pineapple, cultivated and consumed (often as sashimi) in Japan and Korea. VERY DELICIOUS!
Anne Henshaw
19/08/2017 at 4:38 pm
Ooh dont tell me that! Tempting!!!
Edwina Harrison
19/08/2017 at 5:28 pm
Love the video of PJ , follow elaine for shark spotting 😜 Who couldn’t adore Audrey 💕 Looking forward to tomorrow
Anne Henshaw
19/08/2017 at 5:31 pm
Thanks Lainey! I read some blogs that are very profound and cerebral and don’t feel I can measure up to those. I guess mine are just stream of thought.
Naomi
19/08/2017 at 11:42 pm
You are so kind -THANK YOU! I love the photos; and what a fabulous blog! X x