More than eight years ago, I embarked on a journey into open water swimming, though I can’t quite recall what motivated me. I still have a fond memory of one of my first experience at Pugneys in Wakefield with my old friend Mick Hand.
I don’t regret the decision for a moment; it has significantly improved my fitness, mental resilience, and hopefully, my longevity. The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. My first 2-mile swim in Windermere took over two hours, and I finished last! 😂 However, I progressed to several 5k and eventually 10k swims, managing to not come in last—though the finishing position isn’t what matters to me.
Throughout this experience, I’ve been regularly swimming with my childhood friend, Andy Kelly, from our days at English Martyrs School. This has certainly provided us both with support during tough times.
Open water swimming has its own unique subculture. Every individual I’ve met in this community has been friendly, helpful, and supportive, and I hope this continues.
I still aspire to swim the The Kerch Strait in Eastern Europe. It connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, separating the Kerch Peninsula of Crimea in the west from the Taman Peninsula of Russia’s Krasnodar Krai in the east. The strait is 3.1 kilometres to 15 kilometres wide and up to 18 metres deep.
Why you may ask why ? thats easy as my wife’s family live in the Crimea !!
Currently, I swim most mornings at 5:45 AM in our local lake in Wakefield, aiming for a mile, which is often followed by coffee with a few wonderful ladies. One of them is like the swan Pied Piper, and another is an Irish vicar who cycles in and lives on a boat—our early morning conversations are as diverse as they are engaging.
Spending time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and nature, accompanied by good friends, allows for meaningful conversations and mutual support. This experience feels like a form of natural therapy, particularly in beautiful Yorkshire, where the cost is nothing! I highly encourage you to try it—what’s there to lose? Remember, there’s always space for one or two more. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out at 07736157050.
