Wednesday 14/6/17 Who needs the tropics when we have CTB?

I’m not going to lie…… This morning was hard! After the heat and tropical waters of Bali I found it very hard to feel excited about swimming. During my 20 minute drive to Manly in pre dawn darkness, cold and rain, I was thinking “Am I mad? Do I really want to do this?” It took all my determination and the thought that I was blogging to get me to the beach on time. As I arrived I paused to take in the conditions and within a split second I remembered it isn’t  all about wanting to swim it is about needing to swim. Having spent a week in Bali with our wonderful B&B group, the chill has taken a little effort to get used to but coming down the stairs and seeing our Bay in all its splendour is continually mesmerising. The rain clouds on the horizon blocked out the first rays of sunlight. The very low tide forced a longer than usual walk across the cold, cold sand. The cool 18.9 sea temperature forced our arms in the air until the 7am set of waves started breaking encouraging  us to jump just a little and squeal quite a lot as we were all forced to dive under a large wave.

There were still a few raindrops around and threatening clouds so we all gathered around the club.

Nan gives Trish a Happy Birthday post swim hug. I hope you have a wonderful day Trish and that Nick and the boys completely spoil you.

A momentous announcement occurred today. Shaun has finally agreed to cease the banter about the Wall. He suggested a name change – ‘BOW-WOW’s so as to be inclusive to all our wonderful male swimmers. Not sure I like that name but very happy that anyone who wants to share in the friendship of the wall, feels welcome.

Melise and Cheryl

Sam, Brian, Richard, Marco and Danny

Craig, Ann, David and friends

Lainey and Gayle

Leisa, Wendy, Sam, Annie and friend

Although we are reduced in numbers, there is still such energy and everyone enjoyed the social chit chat pre swim.

Jane is very excited to be doing her first swim post Bali

Congratulations to Ken Murphy who was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List and given the Australian Fire Service Medal. What a wonderful achievement Ken. We are all very proud of you

Ken with two of his adoring fans

Shaun and Jeff sharing holiday stories

Danny, Marco, Richard, Brian, Sam and Guy enjoying a warming coffee

Congratulations must go to Paul Avery who hit his 1000 kms today. Unannounced and initially unnoticed as Paul always swims double doubles and triple singles, all without a wet suit, so no one is around when he finally returns to the beach. Amazing achievement Paul. I hope you are warming up!

At 8am, there was still little light and no warmth but an overwhelming feeling of peace and serenity in our beautiful bay.

Have a wonderful day and stay warm

Lisa