Sophia’s freezing for a reason!

As silly as it might seem on this terribly cold winter’s day, there were 230 swimmers flinging themselves in to the 16.3 degree water this morning!

A stunning pre-dawn sky over a weedy beach greeted us this morning.

Now here is Sophia.  She is freezing because she wants to add the Cold & Bold plus the WWW badges to her collection.

Today there were three were newbies. . .

Nat brought her friend along today.

And Wendy convinced these two to give it a try.

Elaine and Ted busy themselves setting up the Cake Stall.  Tomorrow Karen Sander and Elaine are skydiving from 15,000 feet with Margaret-Anne Hayes who at 76 will be the oldest lady to have jumped from such a height! We are raising funds for Can Too/Cure Cancer and The Kolling Institute. Please bring some money for a slice or cake and if you could bring something edible to sell it would be much appreciated! Or you can donate by clicking this link  https://www.cantoo.org.au/fundraisers/JumpintoJuneJumpintoLife1971

Anne, Ian and Pauline are looking cosy.

 

The weed has been hanging around the beach for the past few weeks. This looks – and smells – like a fresh lot which has washed up with the tide.

On a serious note, I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate in this dawn ritual. The mixture of craziness combined with the serenity of the gentle dawn light with the sun breaking through the distant clouds warms the cockles of one’s heart.  Which was very welcome today because that water was certainly chilly – did you hear the squeals, screams and giggles today as we hit the water.

 

 

 

 

Glorious swim across the bay; no swell and beautiful golden light.

 

However, once you hit the Shelly precinct it was like diving into an ice bucket. Why is the water at Shelly so cold?  JK’s little joke was to suggest there was a birthday!

 

The water is still a little turbid, so not many fish sightings. A few were hanging around the rocks at the point, and lots of Gropers feeding in the reeds.

 

 

Sophia is still smiling. Nothing like hot coffee in the sun.

 

And totally deserted benches!!  Is this a first?

 

 

As many of you might know, I have a passion for the performing arts. The #istandwiththearts is a campaign currently running at all live performances across the country. The campaign aims to highlight the very simple fact that you cannot have excellence without the grass roots opportunities for performers, designers of sound, lighting, sets and costume and even administrators to develop their craft. Feel free to read more Here.

 

And while you are there, I can highly recommend All My Sons currently on at the Roslyn Packer Theatre, or for some very silly children’s theatre Hamlet: Prince of Skidmark.

Have a spectacular Saturday.

Mary

 

 

WINTER BADGE

It’s that time again. Winter is here … and so are the winter badges. To recap; Winter swim season runs from 1 June to 31 August.  To qualify for a winter badge, you must:

• swim at least 20 times during this period
  • swim in at least 7 different weeks
  •      log your swims

Clarity on the WWW badge.  Please be aware that to obtain the coveted WinterWithoutWetsuit badge, the only parts of the body where wetsuit material is a permitted covering are the feet (booties allowed).  Apart from the feet, the rest of the body must be in non-wetsuit material. Don’t forget to check the “without wetsuit” button on the login screen

Why not give it a try?  Any questions – email Ian: ugoboyo@gmail.com

BE NICE

Also, a reminder that the philosophy of the B&B group is that we are a group activity – and that swims are only to be logged for swims made between the hours of 6 am and the final 7 am swim (or double or triple or other sanctioned swims).  Swims are not to be logged outside of these times for social and safety reasons.
– Management

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B & B Fundraising Trivia Night

The event may be sold out, but no harm in going on a waiting list! If you are keen email Ian ugoboyo@gmail.com and he will let you know if a spot becomes available.

If you are not into the trivia but would like to help out on the night contact John Kelly.

Venue:   The Steyne Hotel

Date:      Tuesday 12th July – 6.30 pm

Cost:       $25 per head  (which includes a chicken or steak dinner. Drinks will be available at bar prices.)

The Theme of the night is “PINK”, so come dressed in your finest pink paraphernalia to brighten up the night. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed male and female, as well as the best themed table, so use your imagination.

Staying safe

If you bring along a friend please ensure they can swim!!!

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:   230

Newbies:   3

Temp:         16.3 degrees

Sunrise:      7.00am

Sunset:       4.55pm