So much headline drama this morning that we almost need two blogs and a Panadol. First it was the swell and whether we swim from the beach or ½ way. Ian as usual took command like a young Trump in training and suggested we swim from Shelly. Either that or build a great big wall to stop the waves coming in and make the non-swimmers pay for it.
So, some went to Shelly and some through the surf – we are group that welcomes all swimming preferences. Of course, ½ way wasn’t as option because it was too bumpy. Then after we managed to resolve all that there’s not one but two birthdays. Marco seen here with swimmers so bright your humble blogger had the wear sunnies and sunscreen.
And Rob’s birthday was today too and his sons came down for a swim to celebrate with him. The female swimmers thought Rob should bring his sons down for his birthday every week.
So we get over the birthdays then the breaking news is that Kate is expecting a baby today and we thought we’d need to add one more newbie to Ian’s newbie list but the little bub is waiting till there’s a bit more dry land. Here’s Kate with her mate Gabby and little Teddy whose real name is Theodore. Teddy can’t wait to get a new mate to play with.
We didn’t think we could pack anymore drama in when Mary raised the alarm that one of our women (or a man who voted yes which is OK) left her swimmers in the change room. Mary kindly volunteered to bring the swimmers in tomorrow, so they can be claimed. To avoid confusion we have featured them sideways like they are swum in
There are many mental, physical and metaphysical challenges in our tribe and one of the most hotly contested is the nicest guy in Manly. This title was held by Derek until in a shock announcement today Shaun usurped him to claim the crown and proudly wear the T-Shirt.
The debate raged for a least a few minutes before the next drama distracted us:
Now all this drama needed an international twist and we know we can always rely on Mark the Spaniard. Here he is with his Dad Xavier who is out from Spain (surprisingly) and who did the whole swim in the challenging conditions. Like I always say, the Spaniard never falls far from the tree.
Keep Talking
Pete Anthony
Stats
Swimmers: 230 (Plus one lost pair)
Newbies: 6 (almost 7 if Kate had her baby)
Temperature: 20.7 (felt like 21.13)
Summer Swims
The 6km summer swims will continue on most Saturdays thru to Feb.
Proposed 10km swim on Sat 16th Dec at 7am.
Note: Swimmers for 10km are required to bring their own food drink requirements to be left at Manly.
ALL swims are dependent on suitable ocean/weather conditions.
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13 comments
Deanna Waters
14/12/2017 at 12:14 pm
Great talking points Pete, keep up the good work
JeffwithaJ
14/12/2017 at 12:25 pm
Really enjoyed your blog Peter. I am missing my swim buddies but feel as if I have caught up on a lot thanks to your wide ranging, inclusive coverage. Shaun has worked so hard to finally dislodge Derek and I think Shaun could have an entire blog focussed on his “journey”. Great to see Marc’s Dad in the swim!
Jenny ((:
14/12/2017 at 1:28 pm
Thanks Great blog
Edwina harrison
14/12/2017 at 1:39 pm
Happy birthday to rob also, only knew of marco’s birthday. Thanks to Alex and friends for sharing their yummy cake for Alex’s belated birthday. What a great morning 👍🤗
Shelley K
14/12/2017 at 2:13 pm
Your blog sure was swell Pete; we live for the drama because sometimes the sea just doesn’t provide enough!
HRH (aka Pauline)
14/12/2017 at 2:19 pm
Loved reading your blog today. Thanks for taking time out to blog. 🤗
lesbubs
14/12/2017 at 3:46 pm
You were robbed Derek by the worst man in Manly
Elizabeth
14/12/2017 at 4:02 pm
Heart rate back in control after all that drama so I am free to comment. Great blog. Happy birthday rob and marco
Lips
14/12/2017 at 4:12 pm
Couldn’t agree more!!!
Christine Ottley
14/12/2017 at 5:02 pm
How many 50m swimming pool lengths are there to swim from South Steyne to Shelly beach. St the moment I can swim 20 laps 50m swimming pool at Andrew Boyd Charlton Manly pool. Different strokes. I want to build up my strength to join you all
Paul
14/12/2017 at 5:29 pm
Hi Christine, 20x 50 metres is a kilometre. It’s “only” about 750 metres from Manly to Shelly, though ocean swimming is a little different to the pool.
Waves, swell or chop may make any day more difficult, though the bay is fairly protected from the worst ocean conditions. Flat days are way more common than rough.
Fortunately, sea water provides more buoyancy than the pool, particularly if you wear a wetsuit. Also the marine life provide distractions to take your thoughts away from the distance.
You can also build up your distance and confidence by walking to Shelly and a starting from there. The main group departs there at about 7:15.
I’m sure there are plenty of swimmers who would offer to buddy up with you until you gained your confidence.
Come along. Have some fun.
Veena
14/12/2017 at 8:27 pm
Happy birthday Marco!😘🎉🍾🎂🎁
Elizabeth X
15/12/2017 at 12:11 am
You are probably ready – come on down. You could begin by going from half way (near Fairy Bower restaurant ) to Shelly or Shelly to half way. The group always stops at Shelly so you can grab your breath there. There are usually people swimming all sorts of combinations of Manly/halfway/Shelly starts and finishes who will happily buddy up. If you want I can meet you Sun am for a trial run 😊