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What Am I Doing?

On 4th September 2010, I will be jumping into a lake for the "British Red Cross" and completing the "Great North Swim": http://www.greatswim.org/

Why Am I doing it?

I tried to think of reasons why I "should definitely not" step outside my comfort zone and sign up for the challenge. After a lot of thought and deliberation, I realized that there was absolutely no way I could look my coaching clients in the eye and say, "this was what I was going to do but I didn't have the guts"!! So, here I am with my goggles poised and a lot of training ahead. The aim is to improve my questionable swimming technique and finish in a respectable time (under 50 minutes).  " 2010: The year of getting amongst it" in the hope that my small actions will make a big difference to someone else's life.   

What is involved?

Windemere is the largest fresh water lake in England. Length: 11mi 420yd (18.08km)

Max Width: 1630yd (1.49km)

Max Depth: 219ft (67m)

It takes an estimated 2 hours to complete the 1 mile open water swim. Why is a mile more in water?

Lakes, Tarns and Rivers are known to have a "Thermocline barrier" which means that just 1ft (30cms) below the usual surface temperature, there is a wall of extreme cold. When a person jumps into the water, the cramping effect on muscles has been likened to jumping into a bath of ice cubes. The body also has to work harder as there is less buoyancy in fresh water. 

Are there really monsters?

The "Centre of Fortean Zoology" has reported many sightings of a large "eel like creature" in the lake stretching back to the 1950's. May the force be with me.

Donating in Confidence:

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me:  The British Red Cross Society gets your money faster and, if you're a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. So please sponsor me now!