For the past 20 plus years despite health issues I have been able to do what I have wanted. In high school I wasn't the fasted on the team which was fine but I was always reliable for points at every meet to help my team. I worked hard and I wasn't great but I'm comfortable with saying I was good.
The past few months however have been dramatically different. I am starting to feel how all the years of check ups said I was supposed to be feeling. My health I believe is finally at the beginning of the end. I feel like Sampson getting his hair cut off and suddenly losing all his strength.
I keep telling myself "Oh you're just out of shape." (Which is true) But it's more than that. I go out to swim or bike and there's just nothing there. The quality of my work has significantly dropped during this time and am now cutting back hours. I've got a pounding headache most of the time, I've lost over 30 pounds...But the hardest thing of all is when I have one of my nephews tugging on my shorts wanting me to chase them or go play, and looking at their sweet innocent smiling faces and tell them no. Immediately turning there smiles into heartbreaking faces that say "Why? Don't you love me?"
For now the story is not finished but I'm not sure what the future will write...
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Who Am I?
6-27-12
Since i'm not going to be taking part in the weekly swim tomorrow i'm gonna write about whats been on my mind recently.
"Who am I?" It's a common question for any athlete to ask him/herself. I cant even begin to count the times I have asked myself this question whether before a workout, after a race, and so on. When pondering about this and looking at myself I always come back with the same response: "Who do you want to be?" A question that I can more easily come to a conclusion. I want to be awesome! I want to become one of those people that I have looked up to and gotten my strength and confidence from. My brother Josh, our buddies Gordon, and Goody, and who could forget Lynn Cox whose behind my inspiration for this blog in the first place. I want to be those people.
There is one thing that has been a hinderence to me and made it very difficult to reach goals. When I was seven I had an accident which left me with titanium plates and screws in my head. As dumb as it may seem after about a mile and a half to two miles I get painful headaches from the swim cap squeezing my head. I could easily just not wear a swim cap training but any race they are required. And if Idon't wear my cap I lose my ability to have my gps, and in cold water forget about keeping my head in the water. So, the big question: Do I have surgery to take them out?
Again it's another difficult question. In the past my parents have asked if I wanted them out and with no thought i'd say no. It didn't matter in the past, but now that I see the potential to acheive something by doing it it's not a no thought answer. It's not even about the money, after 20 years of having them, well.......Its who I am. It's part of what makes me me, and I'm not sure that I want to get rid of that.
Since i'm not going to be taking part in the weekly swim tomorrow i'm gonna write about whats been on my mind recently.
"Who am I?" It's a common question for any athlete to ask him/herself. I cant even begin to count the times I have asked myself this question whether before a workout, after a race, and so on. When pondering about this and looking at myself I always come back with the same response: "Who do you want to be?" A question that I can more easily come to a conclusion. I want to be awesome! I want to become one of those people that I have looked up to and gotten my strength and confidence from. My brother Josh, our buddies Gordon, and Goody, and who could forget Lynn Cox whose behind my inspiration for this blog in the first place. I want to be those people.
There is one thing that has been a hinderence to me and made it very difficult to reach goals. When I was seven I had an accident which left me with titanium plates and screws in my head. As dumb as it may seem after about a mile and a half to two miles I get painful headaches from the swim cap squeezing my head. I could easily just not wear a swim cap training but any race they are required. And if Idon't wear my cap I lose my ability to have my gps, and in cold water forget about keeping my head in the water. So, the big question: Do I have surgery to take them out?
Again it's another difficult question. In the past my parents have asked if I wanted them out and with no thought i'd say no. It didn't matter in the past, but now that I see the potential to acheive something by doing it it's not a no thought answer. It's not even about the money, after 20 years of having them, well.......Its who I am. It's part of what makes me me, and I'm not sure that I want to get rid of that.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Long Road Ahead
6-21-12
Thursday I was excited to be getting back into the water, all day I watched the clocked waiting impatiently until it was time to leave. As is always the case I spent the day day dreaming about how far I would go thinking that a mile would be too easy, after all I'd done it many times in my "career", and that I'd possibly go for two. I knew I was out of shape before even getting in the car not doing anything for at least seven months, and not "in shape" when I stopped, but nevertheless was unswayed and confident that I'd reach my goal. I was sorely mistaken.
I like to think that I don't give up easily or quit very often, and I suppose every situation is different on how you'd define either result. I don't take falling short very well and unfortunately at least from my perspective when I don't accomplish a goal it's typically a result of several obstacles, whether mere annoyances or major concerns. When do you push it, and when do you surrender and come back?
I didn't reach my goal by at least 1.5 miles, but I didn't give up I surrendered to my weakened body. On my way back to shore I was already drawing up plans in my mind on how to get back in shape to where I can do what I want. The steps will be small and the road long, but the reward for perseverance sweet.
Thursday I was excited to be getting back into the water, all day I watched the clocked waiting impatiently until it was time to leave. As is always the case I spent the day day dreaming about how far I would go thinking that a mile would be too easy, after all I'd done it many times in my "career", and that I'd possibly go for two. I knew I was out of shape before even getting in the car not doing anything for at least seven months, and not "in shape" when I stopped, but nevertheless was unswayed and confident that I'd reach my goal. I was sorely mistaken.
I like to think that I don't give up easily or quit very often, and I suppose every situation is different on how you'd define either result. I don't take falling short very well and unfortunately at least from my perspective when I don't accomplish a goal it's typically a result of several obstacles, whether mere annoyances or major concerns. When do you push it, and when do you surrender and come back?
I didn't reach my goal by at least 1.5 miles, but I didn't give up I surrendered to my weakened body. On my way back to shore I was already drawing up plans in my mind on how to get back in shape to where I can do what I want. The steps will be small and the road long, but the reward for perseverance sweet.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Cold Record
11-23-11
This week the Wasatch Front Polar Bear Club headed out for a Thanksgiving swim at the Great Salt Lake. I met Josh, Gordon, and Goody around 4:15 at the Marina, a little earlier so we had some daylight left for our swim.
Gordon went in first and did two laps to the mouth of the Marina and back, about 700 yards. Goody got in next and did one lap of the same for about 350 yards. The third swimmer was Josh who did the same as Gordon, 700 yards. Then it was my turn.
We took turns swimming as an extra safety precaution so going last I was already cold before getting in. I wanted to have a good swim but I was having doubts about how much I'd be able to do, and watching the first 3 members walk down the ramp and non-chalantly wade into was intimidating.
When I made my way into the water I was surprised at how 'easy' it was. It was cold but bearable and I didn't have any problems with hyperventilating which I think is a first for me. When I started to swim it was a different sensation than I've had in the past. I didn't have that strange sort of comfort in the cold that I've experienced last year and so far this year in cold water. This time my body stung and was uncomfortable, but somehow I managed to stay in and set a new personal record for distance in 49 degrees with .16 miles(300 yards).
This week the Wasatch Front Polar Bear Club headed out for a Thanksgiving swim at the Great Salt Lake. I met Josh, Gordon, and Goody around 4:15 at the Marina, a little earlier so we had some daylight left for our swim.
Gordon went in first and did two laps to the mouth of the Marina and back, about 700 yards. Goody got in next and did one lap of the same for about 350 yards. The third swimmer was Josh who did the same as Gordon, 700 yards. Then it was my turn.
We took turns swimming as an extra safety precaution so going last I was already cold before getting in. I wanted to have a good swim but I was having doubts about how much I'd be able to do, and watching the first 3 members walk down the ramp and non-chalantly wade into was intimidating.
When I made my way into the water I was surprised at how 'easy' it was. It was cold but bearable and I didn't have any problems with hyperventilating which I think is a first for me. When I started to swim it was a different sensation than I've had in the past. I didn't have that strange sort of comfort in the cold that I've experienced last year and so far this year in cold water. This time my body stung and was uncomfortable, but somehow I managed to stay in and set a new personal record for distance in 49 degrees with .16 miles(300 yards).
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Like the sweatshirt says: "Grin and bear it"
10-25-11
It's easy to talk a big game when the water temp is still in the 60's, but when it dips below and the outside temp is 50...well the tune has a different chorus.
Luckily I have an awesome brother that made time to come out a couple days early so I didn't miss out on a swim this week. We met at Bountiful Lake around 5:30 and stepping out of our cars we instantly knew it was gonna be a cold swim.
After setting up our gear on the east pier we were already getting kinda chilly just standing there so we did a few laps around the area to generate some heat and warm up. We headed back to look at the thermometer that Josh had put in the water a few minutes before to see what we'd be up against this week. Josh looked up at me and all he said was: "We are dead." Encouraging right?
This is what we've been waiting for, the temp to drop below 60 and bring on the cold, and with a reading of 57 we got our wish tonight. After having done this at the end of this past winter we knew how that would feel and contemplated the course to take. We decided on just a short swim out to the South pier and back to the East. Josh dove in and after a few strokes I jumped in after him. Like always there was the initial shock to the body and some tingling on the skin but really didn't feel too bad.
When I caught up with Josh we both quickly said we felt good and wanted to keep going. From the South pier we headed toward the island and then made our way back to the East pier where we started. I thought that for sure today I wouldn't be able to keep my head in the water but to my great surprise I was able to. The only thing that bothered me was after awhile my muscles got tight and I felt like I really had to use a lot of effort to make any distance.
In Lynne Cox's new book Josh told me about how she talks about going for a little jog after one of her freezing swims and said that it really helped in warming her up. So when we pulled ourselves out of the water and got dressed we did a quick jog and I gotta admit even with the short distance today of 1/4 mile I could tell a difference with adding the jog and think I will continue that.
It was another great swim and I am so excited that it's getting colder and look forward to seeing what I can do this year!
It's easy to talk a big game when the water temp is still in the 60's, but when it dips below and the outside temp is 50...well the tune has a different chorus.
Luckily I have an awesome brother that made time to come out a couple days early so I didn't miss out on a swim this week. We met at Bountiful Lake around 5:30 and stepping out of our cars we instantly knew it was gonna be a cold swim.
After setting up our gear on the east pier we were already getting kinda chilly just standing there so we did a few laps around the area to generate some heat and warm up. We headed back to look at the thermometer that Josh had put in the water a few minutes before to see what we'd be up against this week. Josh looked up at me and all he said was: "We are dead." Encouraging right?
This is what we've been waiting for, the temp to drop below 60 and bring on the cold, and with a reading of 57 we got our wish tonight. After having done this at the end of this past winter we knew how that would feel and contemplated the course to take. We decided on just a short swim out to the South pier and back to the East. Josh dove in and after a few strokes I jumped in after him. Like always there was the initial shock to the body and some tingling on the skin but really didn't feel too bad.
When I caught up with Josh we both quickly said we felt good and wanted to keep going. From the South pier we headed toward the island and then made our way back to the East pier where we started. I thought that for sure today I wouldn't be able to keep my head in the water but to my great surprise I was able to. The only thing that bothered me was after awhile my muscles got tight and I felt like I really had to use a lot of effort to make any distance.
In Lynne Cox's new book Josh told me about how she talks about going for a little jog after one of her freezing swims and said that it really helped in warming her up. So when we pulled ourselves out of the water and got dressed we did a quick jog and I gotta admit even with the short distance today of 1/4 mile I could tell a difference with adding the jog and think I will continue that.
It was another great swim and I am so excited that it's getting colder and look forward to seeing what I can do this year!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
You're Getting In There...On purpose?
10-20-11
Tonight was our second meeting for WFPBC. Walking along the path to the East Pier there were a pair of couples walking toward the parking lot and asked me: "You're getting in there?" with the second couple following up with: "On purpose?" Well...Heck yes I'm getting in there!
For me week 2 was filled with more anticipation after a somewhat disappointing temp from week 1. Although it wasn't a significant drop, just 2 degrees (63 to 61), it was a good sign that it's getting colder. Gords dove in off the East Pier while Josh and I jumped in after. The initial plan was to swim to the West Pier and back but when we got there the three of us felt pretty good and made a course change around the island and back to the East Pier.
My headaches were a problem until I reached the back of the island then my head warmed up and I was able to put my head in the water and stretch out my stroke. At about the same time I noticed the muscles in my arms were getting tight and was taking more effort to swim. I wondered the rest of the way if the cause was me being out of shape or if it was the cool sinking into them. Since it was just a half mile I figured it was both but more of the water.
Getting out of the water I felt great and I don't think anyone was shaking. It was another great week and continue to look forward to new challenges.
Tonight was our second meeting for WFPBC. Walking along the path to the East Pier there were a pair of couples walking toward the parking lot and asked me: "You're getting in there?" with the second couple following up with: "On purpose?" Well...Heck yes I'm getting in there!
For me week 2 was filled with more anticipation after a somewhat disappointing temp from week 1. Although it wasn't a significant drop, just 2 degrees (63 to 61), it was a good sign that it's getting colder. Gords dove in off the East Pier while Josh and I jumped in after. The initial plan was to swim to the West Pier and back but when we got there the three of us felt pretty good and made a course change around the island and back to the East Pier.
My headaches were a problem until I reached the back of the island then my head warmed up and I was able to put my head in the water and stretch out my stroke. At about the same time I noticed the muscles in my arms were getting tight and was taking more effort to swim. I wondered the rest of the way if the cause was me being out of shape or if it was the cool sinking into them. Since it was just a half mile I figured it was both but more of the water.
Getting out of the water I felt great and I don't think anyone was shaking. It was another great week and continue to look forward to new challenges.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Wasatch Front Polar Bear Club
10-13-11
Today was the first swim for the new Wasatch Polar Bear Club. With the cooler weather the last couple weeks I've been getting excited for cold water season.
Josh, Gordon and I met at Saltair and headed out to Black Rock in Josh's car. It was a nice clear day and close to 70 degrees. When we were walking in the water it was cool but not cold. I think the temp we ended up with was 63. So although it's not 'Polar' yet it was still a great chance for a swim.
The water was the clearest I've ever seen it at the Great Salt Lake and was awesome. I also pulled out my SSD to try out tonight for the first time...I forgot to get it out at La Jolla. I'd heard Josh and others talk about not noticing it behind you when swimming but I still wondered if it would be an annoyance. Thankfully like the others I didn't notice it in fact I forgot that I even had it with me. Before we turned back to head for shore we layed back and relaxed in the water for a few minutes and I learned just by chance that you can lay your head on the SSD like a pillow and the strap will support your back so it's like a bed, it was really comfy and fun.
Although the water was in the 60's the plates in my head got cold and gave me a headache for the first few minutes but was able to warm up and felt great. The only bad thing is that the salt let me know that my lips were a little dry because they were stinging the whole swim but still had fun. I was also worried about my shoulder because it had been hurting for a few days but after being home from the swim it feels like its back to normal. Guess my new medicine is swimming therapy :)
Today was the first swim for the new Wasatch Polar Bear Club. With the cooler weather the last couple weeks I've been getting excited for cold water season.
Josh, Gordon and I met at Saltair and headed out to Black Rock in Josh's car. It was a nice clear day and close to 70 degrees. When we were walking in the water it was cool but not cold. I think the temp we ended up with was 63. So although it's not 'Polar' yet it was still a great chance for a swim.
The water was the clearest I've ever seen it at the Great Salt Lake and was awesome. I also pulled out my SSD to try out tonight for the first time...I forgot to get it out at La Jolla. I'd heard Josh and others talk about not noticing it behind you when swimming but I still wondered if it would be an annoyance. Thankfully like the others I didn't notice it in fact I forgot that I even had it with me. Before we turned back to head for shore we layed back and relaxed in the water for a few minutes and I learned just by chance that you can lay your head on the SSD like a pillow and the strap will support your back so it's like a bed, it was really comfy and fun.
Although the water was in the 60's the plates in my head got cold and gave me a headache for the first few minutes but was able to warm up and felt great. The only bad thing is that the salt let me know that my lips were a little dry because they were stinging the whole swim but still had fun. I was also worried about my shoulder because it had been hurting for a few days but after being home from the swim it feels like its back to normal. Guess my new medicine is swimming therapy :)
La Jolla Cove
9-20-11
While the nephews were excited to go to Legoland, I was trying my best to be patient waiting for La Jolla Cove...And it did not disappoint!!!
At Alcatraz the signs warned against Sea Lions, at La Jolla cautions plastered the rails lining the walkway about dangerous riptides. The whole family played on the beach for a few minutes and the signs were right, the riptide would pull your legs out and drag you into the deep blue if you didn't pay attention. I'd never felt anything like that before it. After hanging out on shore and playing Josh and I couldn't wait any longer and headed into the water. While wading in the cove Josh brought up an interesting point about the salt content. He wondered if we'd even be able to notice it after spending the summer swimming in the Great Salt Lake. I hadn't even thought about that and after swimming a few yards I noticed that the taste was missing and had to lick my lips to make sure the ocean still had salt in it.
Leaving the cove we swam above the local fish population which was both exciting and eerie. Even tho they were just small fish it's visual proof that you are out of your environment and in someone else's. Out in the open the plant life kept sneaking up on me when I would take a breath. Rolling my head and putting my face back in the water I'd be surprised by kelp right in front of me and then be swimming over the top of the slimy and sometimes even pokey plant. We also had a few seagulls dive bombing us on the way to the buoy that we got a kick out of.
Even tho I'd been away from swimming for a few months before getting in I was feeling great and when we were a couple hundred yards from reaching shore I lifted my head up and to my right there a couple Sea Lions playing about ten feet away from me! It was pretty awesome but I gotta admit it kind of freaked me out being that close and I headed back in a quicker pace.
We did about a half mile round trip and had a blast. I'm so happy I finally made it to La Jolla and hope to get back there for a race.
While the nephews were excited to go to Legoland, I was trying my best to be patient waiting for La Jolla Cove...And it did not disappoint!!!
At Alcatraz the signs warned against Sea Lions, at La Jolla cautions plastered the rails lining the walkway about dangerous riptides. The whole family played on the beach for a few minutes and the signs were right, the riptide would pull your legs out and drag you into the deep blue if you didn't pay attention. I'd never felt anything like that before it. After hanging out on shore and playing Josh and I couldn't wait any longer and headed into the water. While wading in the cove Josh brought up an interesting point about the salt content. He wondered if we'd even be able to notice it after spending the summer swimming in the Great Salt Lake. I hadn't even thought about that and after swimming a few yards I noticed that the taste was missing and had to lick my lips to make sure the ocean still had salt in it.
Leaving the cove we swam above the local fish population which was both exciting and eerie. Even tho they were just small fish it's visual proof that you are out of your environment and in someone else's. Out in the open the plant life kept sneaking up on me when I would take a breath. Rolling my head and putting my face back in the water I'd be surprised by kelp right in front of me and then be swimming over the top of the slimy and sometimes even pokey plant. We also had a few seagulls dive bombing us on the way to the buoy that we got a kick out of.
Even tho I'd been away from swimming for a few months before getting in I was feeling great and when we were a couple hundred yards from reaching shore I lifted my head up and to my right there a couple Sea Lions playing about ten feet away from me! It was pretty awesome but I gotta admit it kind of freaked me out being that close and I headed back in a quicker pace.
We did about a half mile round trip and had a blast. I'm so happy I finally made it to La Jolla and hope to get back there for a race.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Can't be shown up by a 1 and a half year old
6-16-11
Today Josh was bringing out the paddle board he has on loan to try out at Bountiful Pond. My parents and grandma and I met Josh and his wife and kids at 6 with no intention of getting in and swimming due to the change in weather an hour before. And that was just with the weather in mind. We didn't find out until we got there that the water temp was 53! All that melting snow was really having an effect.
Josh, Sabrina, my dad, Josh's buddy that came from Sandy, and myself all tried the board and had a blast. I'd really like to rent one on a day that the weather is better and spend a few hours on the water.
I got on for a second go at it and headed toward the canal where the water was emptying into the pond. Josh had just tried and got past the walkway that goes across but the current was too strong and was at a stand still after that.
Unfortunately I was too far left where the strength of the current was at its worst and flipped over. Never had a chance. Falling in right at the mouth where the new water was coming in was quite a shock but I was able to recover pretty quick and toss my arms over the board and kick back to shore.
15 minutes or so before my little nephew had taken a dive in the water, so not wanting to be out done by a one-and-a-half year old and having just fallen in myself I decided I might as well go swimming.
I got in and did a few yards while Josh and my dad put the paddle board back on Josh's car. The water around the ramp was actually pretty warm and going out into the open it didn't feel too bad. When I got out I asked Josh if he was gonna get in. He is always up for anything so he got ready and I got back in with him. Again the water getting in felt good but this time it seemed to be a little more chilly when we got out in the open.
I didn't bring my GPS because I wasn't planning on swimming so I'm not sure how far I went total but I would guess between 35-50 yards. I had a great time tonight and after doing a couple short cold water swims I remembered how fun it is and a part of me misses that.
Today Josh was bringing out the paddle board he has on loan to try out at Bountiful Pond. My parents and grandma and I met Josh and his wife and kids at 6 with no intention of getting in and swimming due to the change in weather an hour before. And that was just with the weather in mind. We didn't find out until we got there that the water temp was 53! All that melting snow was really having an effect.
Josh, Sabrina, my dad, Josh's buddy that came from Sandy, and myself all tried the board and had a blast. I'd really like to rent one on a day that the weather is better and spend a few hours on the water.
I got on for a second go at it and headed toward the canal where the water was emptying into the pond. Josh had just tried and got past the walkway that goes across but the current was too strong and was at a stand still after that.
Unfortunately I was too far left where the strength of the current was at its worst and flipped over. Never had a chance. Falling in right at the mouth where the new water was coming in was quite a shock but I was able to recover pretty quick and toss my arms over the board and kick back to shore.
15 minutes or so before my little nephew had taken a dive in the water, so not wanting to be out done by a one-and-a-half year old and having just fallen in myself I decided I might as well go swimming.
I got in and did a few yards while Josh and my dad put the paddle board back on Josh's car. The water around the ramp was actually pretty warm and going out into the open it didn't feel too bad. When I got out I asked Josh if he was gonna get in. He is always up for anything so he got ready and I got back in with him. Again the water getting in felt good but this time it seemed to be a little more chilly when we got out in the open.
I didn't bring my GPS because I wasn't planning on swimming so I'm not sure how far I went total but I would guess between 35-50 yards. I had a great time tonight and after doing a couple short cold water swims I remembered how fun it is and a part of me misses that.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Great Salt Lake Open Water Swim Marathon
6-11-11
Josh and Gordon put on an awesome race this afternoon that was a huge success. I had the opportunity to volunteer as kayak support/photo taker and had a great time.
There were several out of state swimmers that came just to participate which I thought was pretty cool. I consider my a swimmer although I may not be the strongest so my favorite part was just the chance to spend yesterday and today chatting and hanging out with all these amazing swimmers.
Everyone that checked in and started finished both distances. There were 11 for the 8 mile swim and 25 for the mile. The only bad thing of the day on my part was spacing putting sunscreen on my ears so they are like crispy bacon...although not nearly as tasty I'm sure.
Again my hats off to all of the awesome swimmers accepting the challenge and being so strong. Also to all the help by the harbor master and volunteers and other sponsors that played big rolls in helping Josh and Gordon getting this swim back up and hopefully going for years to come. Lets make some new legends! Good job everybody!
Josh and Gordon put on an awesome race this afternoon that was a huge success. I had the opportunity to volunteer as kayak support/photo taker and had a great time.
There were several out of state swimmers that came just to participate which I thought was pretty cool. I consider my a swimmer although I may not be the strongest so my favorite part was just the chance to spend yesterday and today chatting and hanging out with all these amazing swimmers.
Everyone that checked in and started finished both distances. There were 11 for the 8 mile swim and 25 for the mile. The only bad thing of the day on my part was spacing putting sunscreen on my ears so they are like crispy bacon...although not nearly as tasty I'm sure.
Again my hats off to all of the awesome swimmers accepting the challenge and being so strong. Also to all the help by the harbor master and volunteers and other sponsors that played big rolls in helping Josh and Gordon getting this swim back up and hopefully going for years to come. Lets make some new legends! Good job everybody!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Great Salt Lake Open Water Marathon Swim Course Test
6-4-11
It's been so long let's see if I can remember what a post is. I was happy when Josh asked me to head out to GSL tonight and do a double check on the 1 mile distance for the race that Josh and Gordon are putting on Saturday the 11th.
As usual the water felt chilly walking in from the boat ramp but immediately felt great after a couple strokes. Since I haven't been swimming for a few weeks my shoulders and arms got sore pretty early but pushed past it after a couple hundred yards and felt good the rest of the way.
It's always interesting to try and notice the differences in each swim. Tonight I didn't notice swimming through any cold or warm spots, just a constant temp the whole mile. I have also been able in the past to do a good job of keeping the salt out of my mouth except for being blind-sided by a wave once in a while. After this swim I didn't have any salt taste in my mouth and just a faint taste when I licked my lips. And besides the last swim this swim I didn't have any chaffing under my armpits---which I definitely won't complain about.
As I got closer to Black Rock I was able to notice a few cars when I sighted every few strokes and there were people standing around the edge but I couldn't tell what they were doing. When I reached shallow water and began to walk the last few yards to shore I noticed that the people standing around the site was a group of young girls and they were clapping. After I caught up to Josh the group started to chat with us. Turns out they were a Girl Scout group and had seen us swimming and watched us come in. It always makes us laugh that people are so shocked to see us out there. A couple girls came down the bank and were pretty interested with the bright hats we had with us, and Josh explained that they were a latex swim cap that make it easy for boats and other people to see us. One of the girls even asked me for a high five which I gotta admit made me feel pretty special.
It's been so long let's see if I can remember what a post is. I was happy when Josh asked me to head out to GSL tonight and do a double check on the 1 mile distance for the race that Josh and Gordon are putting on Saturday the 11th.
As usual the water felt chilly walking in from the boat ramp but immediately felt great after a couple strokes. Since I haven't been swimming for a few weeks my shoulders and arms got sore pretty early but pushed past it after a couple hundred yards and felt good the rest of the way.
It's always interesting to try and notice the differences in each swim. Tonight I didn't notice swimming through any cold or warm spots, just a constant temp the whole mile. I have also been able in the past to do a good job of keeping the salt out of my mouth except for being blind-sided by a wave once in a while. After this swim I didn't have any salt taste in my mouth and just a faint taste when I licked my lips. And besides the last swim this swim I didn't have any chaffing under my armpits---which I definitely won't complain about.
As I got closer to Black Rock I was able to notice a few cars when I sighted every few strokes and there were people standing around the edge but I couldn't tell what they were doing. When I reached shallow water and began to walk the last few yards to shore I noticed that the people standing around the site was a group of young girls and they were clapping. After I caught up to Josh the group started to chat with us. Turns out they were a Girl Scout group and had seen us swimming and watched us come in. It always makes us laugh that people are so shocked to see us out there. A couple girls came down the bank and were pretty interested with the bright hats we had with us, and Josh explained that they were a latex swim cap that make it easy for boats and other people to see us. One of the girls even asked me for a high five which I gotta admit made me feel pretty special.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Black Rock
5-12-11
Although I enjoy a challenge I was looking forward to less waves due to decreased boat activity during the weekdays. Josh and I discussed a couple different courses and decided we'd walk out from Silver Sands Beach and start from the eastern buoy and swim to Black Rock and back, roughly 2 miles. We had a lot of family support as usual come out; Our parents, Grandma, Sister and Brother-In-Law...and of course it wouldn't be a party without the 3 little nephews Harrison, Owen, and Cole. Josh and I were happy to see Jodi carrying a bag with her and got excited that she would be getting in. Unfortunately the bag that we thought had her swim gear in it was just the treat the bag to keep the little boys happy. Maybe next time.
After a few minutes talking with family and playing with the nephews I really started feeling weak and fatigued and wondered if I would be up to swimming. I did some stretches and headed down to the beach and walked around in the water to cool down a little. Josh joined shortly after and we headed for the starting buoy.
There was a few cold spots going out to the buoy but other than that the water felt great. When we reached our starting point I told Josh I'd just take off while he made final adjustments to his gps knowing he's a stronger swimmer and would catch up shortly. My fatigue and weakness disappeared as soon as I started which gave me a lot of confidence. I put focus on not stopping and to just keep a pace and push through the pain when my shoulders got tired. One of the best helps that I have learned from reading about Lynne Cox is being able to mentally force yourself to keep going through pain knowing that after you break through the barrier it becomes easier and get sort of a second wind.
I'm sure Josh was holding back but I was able to stay close to him for about half the distance out. Every now and then I would take wider strokes for 50 yards or so to try and reduce chaffing. About 3/4 of the way to Black Rock my head began hurting and put a crack in my confidence. I decided to take my goggles off and that immediately got rid of the pain and my confidence was patched. I caught up to Josh and we talked for a few minutes before turning back.
On the second leg we were swimming against the current but were making good time. When I got halfway or slightly farther back my headache returned and really started to wear me down mentally. I took off my goggles again but that didn't do any good and I couldn't take my cap off because of my gps that was underneath. I only swam with a good stroke a couple hundred yards after that and the rest I did breaststroke or swam head up.
The marina was getting closer and closer and was looking very appealing to cut in there and be done instead of going the extra 1/4 mile back to the beach. When I reached the mouth of the marina I made the decision to end early knowing that I wasn't losing much distance and felt like I had fought pretty well to this point. If I can just push a little farther with the pain and build a stronger tolerance I will reach my goal. After Deercreek I felt that a 5k wasn't gonna be possible but on this swim I was able to hold on for almost an extra mile. I feel that the goal is just out of reach but am confident that I will grab it soon.
I was a little sad to see 2.3 miles on my GPS but I wasn't mad about it. When I got home and took a look at the readings from my Garmin and compared it to the last swim there was definite improvement. My pace per mile was higher and more steady than the previous swim. I also set a new personal record for open water distance this season and for my lifetime. I found out from my Grandma that she was worried because we swam out of her eye site and didn't get back soon enough. Guess I gotta get faster!
Although I enjoy a challenge I was looking forward to less waves due to decreased boat activity during the weekdays. Josh and I discussed a couple different courses and decided we'd walk out from Silver Sands Beach and start from the eastern buoy and swim to Black Rock and back, roughly 2 miles. We had a lot of family support as usual come out; Our parents, Grandma, Sister and Brother-In-Law...and of course it wouldn't be a party without the 3 little nephews Harrison, Owen, and Cole. Josh and I were happy to see Jodi carrying a bag with her and got excited that she would be getting in. Unfortunately the bag that we thought had her swim gear in it was just the treat the bag to keep the little boys happy. Maybe next time.
After a few minutes talking with family and playing with the nephews I really started feeling weak and fatigued and wondered if I would be up to swimming. I did some stretches and headed down to the beach and walked around in the water to cool down a little. Josh joined shortly after and we headed for the starting buoy.
There was a few cold spots going out to the buoy but other than that the water felt great. When we reached our starting point I told Josh I'd just take off while he made final adjustments to his gps knowing he's a stronger swimmer and would catch up shortly. My fatigue and weakness disappeared as soon as I started which gave me a lot of confidence. I put focus on not stopping and to just keep a pace and push through the pain when my shoulders got tired. One of the best helps that I have learned from reading about Lynne Cox is being able to mentally force yourself to keep going through pain knowing that after you break through the barrier it becomes easier and get sort of a second wind.
I'm sure Josh was holding back but I was able to stay close to him for about half the distance out. Every now and then I would take wider strokes for 50 yards or so to try and reduce chaffing. About 3/4 of the way to Black Rock my head began hurting and put a crack in my confidence. I decided to take my goggles off and that immediately got rid of the pain and my confidence was patched. I caught up to Josh and we talked for a few minutes before turning back.
On the second leg we were swimming against the current but were making good time. When I got halfway or slightly farther back my headache returned and really started to wear me down mentally. I took off my goggles again but that didn't do any good and I couldn't take my cap off because of my gps that was underneath. I only swam with a good stroke a couple hundred yards after that and the rest I did breaststroke or swam head up.
The marina was getting closer and closer and was looking very appealing to cut in there and be done instead of going the extra 1/4 mile back to the beach. When I reached the mouth of the marina I made the decision to end early knowing that I wasn't losing much distance and felt like I had fought pretty well to this point. If I can just push a little farther with the pain and build a stronger tolerance I will reach my goal. After Deercreek I felt that a 5k wasn't gonna be possible but on this swim I was able to hold on for almost an extra mile. I feel that the goal is just out of reach but am confident that I will grab it soon.
I was a little sad to see 2.3 miles on my GPS but I wasn't mad about it. When I got home and took a look at the readings from my Garmin and compared it to the last swim there was definite improvement. My pace per mile was higher and more steady than the previous swim. I also set a new personal record for open water distance this season and for my lifetime. I found out from my Grandma that she was worried because we swam out of her eye site and didn't get back soon enough. Guess I gotta get faster!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
'Misguided'
5-7-11
Using my last swim course as a guide and tweaking it a bit I was planning on 3 miles and depending on how I felt maybe hit 4. I was happy to finally talk my dad into getting in and swimming with me, it was a nice day out and didn't notice much wind. There were quit a few cars in the parking lot which was a great surprise even though they were there for boating and not to swim. I noticed the water level had risen a couple feet and when my dad and I walked in it may have been me but it seemed a little colder than before but still felt good. A couple strokes into the swim the water was feeling great and I was ready for a long swim. When I reached the mouth of the marina and into the open water the waves began their plans to foil my goal. They weren't too big but big enough that it was gonna be a tougher workout. On my way to the first buoy I could feel my Gatorade Prime that I had shoved up the leg of my suit moving around and I began to doubt that it would stay in until I wanted it. Heading east to begin the first lap I could feel the waves pushing me towards shore and had to correct my path a few times but made pretty good time. Reaching the third buoy the plan was to head further away from shore to the red buoy. I figured that they were red for a reason and that I wasn't supposed to swim out there but threw the rules out and went for it anyway. On the second lap I heard the people standing on the look out yelling "Swimmer! Swimmer!!!" I stopped and looked around trying to figure out what was going on and other than a boat that I had gone by me a couple times and I was keeping an eye on I didn't notice anything wrong so I kept swimming. On the home stretch of the second lap I waded in the water and got out the Prime I brought with me to help with the dry mouth caused by salt. With the first shot the contrast between the dryness of the salt and the wet sweetness I gagged, spit it out, and dry heaved but managed to get the rest down. About halfway back from the second lap I started to get worn down and even a little frustrated at times with the waves and began debating whether I'd do a third or fourth lap, and knowing how upset I would be with myself I settled on doing a half lap and finishing at Silver Sands Beach. Knowing that I was on my final leg it gave me extra adrenaline and it went by pretty quick. Taking my Garmin GPS out of my swim cap it read 1.6 miles...needless to say I was upset and pretty disappointed with myself. I knew by my estimation it wouldn't be 3 miles which was bad enough but cutting the third lap in half I was planning on seeing just over 2 miles so I ended up about a half mile of what I thought. The thing that made it the worst was before the swim I told my parents that they were gonna see a new Jake record for distance. I know they weren't disappointed but like my dad said "He's never happy" and he is right as long as I don't hit at least a 5k. When I got home I realized that my estimations were right but as part of my laps I didn't swim back into the marina or add something else to keep that lost distance. I believe in being hard on myself but also finding good things to look at, so to end on a happy note the 1.6 miles was double the distance of my last swim and the furthest I have gone so far this year. My pace was also pretty good right around 2 mph.
Using my last swim course as a guide and tweaking it a bit I was planning on 3 miles and depending on how I felt maybe hit 4. I was happy to finally talk my dad into getting in and swimming with me, it was a nice day out and didn't notice much wind. There were quit a few cars in the parking lot which was a great surprise even though they were there for boating and not to swim. I noticed the water level had risen a couple feet and when my dad and I walked in it may have been me but it seemed a little colder than before but still felt good. A couple strokes into the swim the water was feeling great and I was ready for a long swim. When I reached the mouth of the marina and into the open water the waves began their plans to foil my goal. They weren't too big but big enough that it was gonna be a tougher workout. On my way to the first buoy I could feel my Gatorade Prime that I had shoved up the leg of my suit moving around and I began to doubt that it would stay in until I wanted it. Heading east to begin the first lap I could feel the waves pushing me towards shore and had to correct my path a few times but made pretty good time. Reaching the third buoy the plan was to head further away from shore to the red buoy. I figured that they were red for a reason and that I wasn't supposed to swim out there but threw the rules out and went for it anyway. On the second lap I heard the people standing on the look out yelling "Swimmer! Swimmer!!!" I stopped and looked around trying to figure out what was going on and other than a boat that I had gone by me a couple times and I was keeping an eye on I didn't notice anything wrong so I kept swimming. On the home stretch of the second lap I waded in the water and got out the Prime I brought with me to help with the dry mouth caused by salt. With the first shot the contrast between the dryness of the salt and the wet sweetness I gagged, spit it out, and dry heaved but managed to get the rest down. About halfway back from the second lap I started to get worn down and even a little frustrated at times with the waves and began debating whether I'd do a third or fourth lap, and knowing how upset I would be with myself I settled on doing a half lap and finishing at Silver Sands Beach. Knowing that I was on my final leg it gave me extra adrenaline and it went by pretty quick. Taking my Garmin GPS out of my swim cap it read 1.6 miles...needless to say I was upset and pretty disappointed with myself. I knew by my estimation it wouldn't be 3 miles which was bad enough but cutting the third lap in half I was planning on seeing just over 2 miles so I ended up about a half mile of what I thought. The thing that made it the worst was before the swim I told my parents that they were gonna see a new Jake record for distance. I know they weren't disappointed but like my dad said "He's never happy" and he is right as long as I don't hit at least a 5k. When I got home I realized that my estimations were right but as part of my laps I didn't swim back into the marina or add something else to keep that lost distance. I believe in being hard on myself but also finding good things to look at, so to end on a happy note the 1.6 miles was double the distance of my last swim and the furthest I have gone so far this year. My pace was also pretty good right around 2 mph.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
200 Yards Short
5-4-11
It's no longer a cold water group with the temp at 60 on Wednesday. It was a great day for swimming and I was really looking forward to going back to the Great Salt Lake, I think it may be my new favorite place to swim (when the ocean isn't an option). Unfortunately I was late so I got there as Josh, Gordon, and Goody were finishing their swim, but I got to chat with Brad from the State Parks who was there taking pictures of the swimmers. I'm excited to get to volunteer for Josh's swim he has put together this summer and it's great to see how much support and excitement the State Parks are giving him. I did the course that the rest of the group did except I went in reverse, starting at the ramp. Just a few seconds in and the water was great. My goal was to do at least a mile and to not stop as much. Leaving the marina a boat passed on my left and I had the pleasure of eating gasoline for the next 25 yards or so. Last week I was feeling really weak for some reason, but this week I felt better even though I still have a slight cold. After I made it out of the marina and to the first green buoy I looked east to sight the third buoy and headed for it. I'm still working on getting in shape so going out felt somewhat slow but just as enjoyable. On the return lap I finally felt like I had a rhythm going and a steady pace to keep and the second half felt like it went by much faster. I always felt kind of dumb because I didn't notice any currents when Josh and I swam Alcatraz in 2009, even more so because Coach Pedro had a special meeting talking about how strong they were and where to go for the best paths. It may be that I hadn't done hardy any open water swimming because now that I have done more I have noticed being moved around both times in the Great Salt Lake. Cutting across to return to the marina there was a slight current that I had to fight a little but luckily it didn't take much because I was kinda wearing out from the swim and my cold. All in all it was a great swim. I ended up at .88 miles so I was roughly 200 yards short which I was upset about but now I will know where to go next time. I was surprised by my time again, I finished just under 29 minutes, about 14.5 each lap which is what Josh and I did last week with the wind doing most of the work for us. As for the second half of my goal I did stop a handful of times but I think I did much better. For my next swim I need to stuff a Gatorade Prime in my suit not necessarily for the energy but to rehydrate my mouth from all the salt drying it out.
It's no longer a cold water group with the temp at 60 on Wednesday. It was a great day for swimming and I was really looking forward to going back to the Great Salt Lake, I think it may be my new favorite place to swim (when the ocean isn't an option). Unfortunately I was late so I got there as Josh, Gordon, and Goody were finishing their swim, but I got to chat with Brad from the State Parks who was there taking pictures of the swimmers. I'm excited to get to volunteer for Josh's swim he has put together this summer and it's great to see how much support and excitement the State Parks are giving him. I did the course that the rest of the group did except I went in reverse, starting at the ramp. Just a few seconds in and the water was great. My goal was to do at least a mile and to not stop as much. Leaving the marina a boat passed on my left and I had the pleasure of eating gasoline for the next 25 yards or so. Last week I was feeling really weak for some reason, but this week I felt better even though I still have a slight cold. After I made it out of the marina and to the first green buoy I looked east to sight the third buoy and headed for it. I'm still working on getting in shape so going out felt somewhat slow but just as enjoyable. On the return lap I finally felt like I had a rhythm going and a steady pace to keep and the second half felt like it went by much faster. I always felt kind of dumb because I didn't notice any currents when Josh and I swam Alcatraz in 2009, even more so because Coach Pedro had a special meeting talking about how strong they were and where to go for the best paths. It may be that I hadn't done hardy any open water swimming because now that I have done more I have noticed being moved around both times in the Great Salt Lake. Cutting across to return to the marina there was a slight current that I had to fight a little but luckily it didn't take much because I was kinda wearing out from the swim and my cold. All in all it was a great swim. I ended up at .88 miles so I was roughly 200 yards short which I was upset about but now I will know where to go next time. I was surprised by my time again, I finished just under 29 minutes, about 14.5 each lap which is what Josh and I did last week with the wind doing most of the work for us. As for the second half of my goal I did stop a handful of times but I think I did much better. For my next swim I need to stuff a Gatorade Prime in my suit not necessarily for the energy but to rehydrate my mouth from all the salt drying it out.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Great Salt Lake .5 Miles
4-28-11
Earlier today I wasn't sure the weather was gonna hold for our swim but it turned out pretty nice. Luckily Josh decided to reverse the course he had planned or it would have been a tough workout fighting through the waves. The water was in the mid 50's and felt really good. We started at the ramp in the marina and headed east finishing at Silver Beach. We swam against the wind to exit the marina and seemed like it took awhile but with the wind at our back the rest of the way we went pretty fast. One of the best parts was because of the salt and the big waves I was able to pretend that I was back in the ocean. When we reached the shore Josh got a pretty nasty scrape on his elbow and I got a little one on my knee. There was also a group of people that were there before us walking around and when they saw Josh and I getting ready they started taking pictures of us and stood with our dad and grandma and watched us do our swim. It was a really fun swim, can't wait to go back!
Earlier today I wasn't sure the weather was gonna hold for our swim but it turned out pretty nice. Luckily Josh decided to reverse the course he had planned or it would have been a tough workout fighting through the waves. The water was in the mid 50's and felt really good. We started at the ramp in the marina and headed east finishing at Silver Beach. We swam against the wind to exit the marina and seemed like it took awhile but with the wind at our back the rest of the way we went pretty fast. One of the best parts was because of the salt and the big waves I was able to pretend that I was back in the ocean. When we reached the shore Josh got a pretty nasty scrape on his elbow and I got a little one on my knee. There was also a group of people that were there before us walking around and when they saw Josh and I getting ready they started taking pictures of us and stood with our dad and grandma and watched us do our swim. It was a really fun swim, can't wait to go back!
Friday, April 22, 2011
.71 Miles?...Huh?
After last weeks swim I was ready to really push myself. I was planning on 1.5 miles and was confident I could turn in a decent time. The weather was pretty good except for a cold breeze, and I had a feeling lurking in the back of my mind that today could be 'one of those days.' Josh's thermometer read 58 degrees and I was anxious to get in and warm up. There is nothing worse than when you are pumped up ready to go and you take one step off the boat ramp and your foot is numb. Josh and I looked at each other and said "That's definitely not 58." I re thunk my game plan and decided to just repeat last weeks swim route. The water was already cold just walking in and the path to the island got colder. I made it to the west side ok and was feeling better than I thought I would. I was startled when I hit something taking a stroke, it was the bottom of the pond again. Pretty soon my stomach and legs were dragging along the bottom, I tried putting some distance between me and the island but that didn't seem to be helping so I decided to just try and get through it as fast as I could. I couldn't take good strokes and I couldn't kick because when I did I kicked the bottom and with numb feet it really hurt. It was a bizarre feeling being in a foot of water and not being able to swim. I stretched my arm out in front like a normal stroke but instead of bringing it under my body I took it out to the side and brought it in. To that I added a half dolphin kick to stay away from the bottom...I can't even imagine what a fool I looked like. I gave up on the kick all together and drug my body on the rough terrain the rest of the way. When I was just about to the north side I swam over a couple big boulders and caught my side on a stick. Why didn't I just stand up and walk to the other side? I thought about it but I didn't want to cheat. I wanted to do a few laps around the island but I didn't want to go through that anymore so I waded til Josh came around from his second lap. When we met up again Josh told me he wanted to swim to the south pier and from there go to the east pier and then back to the ramp. I was happy he made the suggestion, although it was cold I wanted to go farther than last week. When I caught up with Josh he was waving to a little boy on the pier who was dumbfounded seeing two guys swimming in the pond. On our way to the east pier my brain was in and out of consciousness. Things would get a little foggy, or I'd feel lost...it was un-nerving. Luckily we were close to the end and I tried to get there as fast as I could. When we finished we had some extra support besides our family today. There was a lady with her family fishing and having a pic-nic cheering and clapping. As I was stumbling out of the water she yelled over to Josh and I "I don't know you guys, but hell of a good job!" I got my worst case of hypothermia up to this point. Usually I don't start shaking until I am dried off and dressed, but today I was still getting to dry land when my body started to shake. Josh brought an emergency blanket for each of us but they didn't seem to be helping so we just got dressed and went to our cars and turned up the heater. I was really looking forward to my hot shower and left the parking lot sooner than I should have. The whole way home I was shaking almost uncontrollably and kept thinking "I really shouldn't be driving." I got home safe and ran inside and took a nearly 30 minute long shower until I 'snapped out of it' and felt normal again.
Friday, April 15, 2011
.45 Miles Of Perfection
Weather never ceases to amaze me. With the storm that passed through last week dropping the water temp 10 degrees, I was certain that the nearly solid week of snow and heavy rain leading up to today's swim would be devastating for the temp. I was thinking 40 would be lucky. Fortunately the thermometer took a journey in the other direction and the water was a very pleasant 58, only 6 degrees colder than Josh and I's swim at Alcatraz. Gordon and Josh's plan was to start at the boat ramp and trace the perimeter of the pond, a little more than 1 mile. Not hitting the pool yet to get in shape I decided to just swim around the island and back, about a half mile. The three of us took the slow walk down the ramp and into the water together. When we were waist deep Gordon and Josh took off with no problem but as I had imagined it going for me I started to hyperventilate. As crazy as it sounds when I just jump in I don't have a problem, but when I walk in I usually have this problem. I took a few short strokes and tried to swim it out. This wasn't working so I stopped and tread water while I took a few deep breathes to even out my breathing. When I was back in control I resumed the path towards the island. About halfway there my body was climatized and was feeling great. There were a couple cold spots along the way as well as warm, approaching the north end there was a current pushing against me and all around the island my hand would hit the bottom every few strokes. When I was on the west side of it I was having a hard time seeing out of goggles from getting fogged up so when I was about to come back into view on the south side I took a break to clear them so I knew where I was heading. The home stretch went pretty fast and swam through a couple more cold spots. When I reached the finish my dad and nephew were waiting on the ramp, standing up I was a little dizzy and stumbled a bit but felt great other than that. As I was taking my first step onto the cement I caught a glance of my skin and noticed something wasn't quite right with how it looked. It had the familiar bumps and could see that most of my skin was the normal color with no red patches. I took both hands and ran them across my stomach each finger drawing a line in the slimy residue of the pond. Looking up at my dad I said, "What is that?" I'm not sure what it really was and prefer to keep it that way. I felt like some sort of swamp creature. Today was my favorite cold water swim so far, I finished at .45 miles and with couple stops to catch my breath and fix my goggles it only took 15:30. Not too fast but for not being in shape and in 58 degrees I was pretty happy with it.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Glad To Be Back?...YES!!!
After time slipped away from me last week and had the beginnings of a cold or flu the week before that, it was good to get back with the cold water swim group today. After reading the blogs of Gordon and Josh from last week about the excellent conditions, water temp near 60 degrees, I was feeling confident about completing a swim around the island. Unfortunately as Spring goes in Utah a snow storm passed through the weekend and with a small pond with a perimeter of about 1 mile weather has a more dramatic effect than usual. Gordon's thermometer read 48.9, a 10 degree drop in just a few days. As if the significant drop in water temp wasn't enough, the wind was really blowing and kicking up some decent waves for such a tiny pond, and of course the wind chill factor. I piled my clothes under the pic-nic table by the ramp, put my shoes on top so they wouldn't blow away, and ran to the east pier. While I stood on the pier with Josh and Goody the rational part of my brain was desperately trying talk me into bailing out. To those who know me the best know that I like to talk big, but in reality I'm not as tough as I lead people to believe. However today I was close to succumbing to reason. The hardest part is often just jumping in. When you get in there is no getting out until completing the goal. Right about this time another part of my brain; the crazy, irrational, adventurous, fun...whatever you want to label it was feeding me a different tone. "Don't think about it, just jump in and go!" Goody seemed to have been on this same train of thought, as soon as he was ready he was in the water and on his way. Josh soon followed him and I was in after Josh. It's amazing how much your brain can process in a split second, hanging in mid-air between the water and the safety of the pier I had thoughts of "There's no turning back now" and "You are really gonna regret this." Sure enough upon hitting the water it immediately stung my body and had a little regret. When my head came above water I was slammed with multiple waves and caught a mouthful of water. Luckily I was able to control the natural urge to swallow and spit out the water instead. I just did a short 200 yards so it went pretty fast. This swim was the first cold water swim that I wanted to not waste any time and get out as soon as possible. Getting dressed I was warm regardless of the wind and didn't start shaking til I got in my car and headed back home.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Swimming For Kidneys charity fundraiser
My brother Josh and I are planning to swim at least a 5k in 24 of Utah's State Parks to raise money that will be donated to the National Kidney Foundation of Utah and Idaho. This is going to take place in summer 2012. We look forward to and appreciate any support you can give, whether coming to watch and cheering, donating, being a sponsor, etc. We have a couple ways to follow us where we will be posting stories, pictures, videos, links, where we will be at that week, etc. www.swimmingforkidneys.com and on facebook under Swimming For Kidneys. We hope to hear from you!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
7:37/.22 Miles
3-17-11
After dropping a little at the first of the week from another storm passing through the water made up lost ground and was a cool 50 degrees. As strange, or even crazy, as it sounds the last few weeks I have been a little let down not really feeling any effects of our swims. It's not that I want to put myself in serious danger but the reason I'm participating in this group is to be a part of something few people even try, and to push my limits. Today I reached that limit and tip-toed over the line, venturing into the unknown. Gordon walked down the boat ramp and started swimming towards the island, while Josh and I made our way to the south pier where we would join him on his return. The swim was on par with previous attempts; the initial shock of the water, breathing was under control, etc. The last 75 yards I was really starting to get used to the cold and slightly counteract the effects. When I reached the finish at the ramp my body had the usual tiny bumps but to my surprise I couldn't really tell any difference in my skin pigment. Trying to get out and take my goggles off that seemed to be glued to my eye sockets I was a little off balance and thought it was just the slimy rocks I was trying to avoid stepping on. After falling a couple times I walked out and over to my towel. While standing there a got a little dizzy and was still off balance for a good minute or so...mild hypothermia. I only went about 180 more yards than last week but that extra couple of minutes seems to be the boundary for me personally. Look forward to seeing how far I can go next week!
After dropping a little at the first of the week from another storm passing through the water made up lost ground and was a cool 50 degrees. As strange, or even crazy, as it sounds the last few weeks I have been a little let down not really feeling any effects of our swims. It's not that I want to put myself in serious danger but the reason I'm participating in this group is to be a part of something few people even try, and to push my limits. Today I reached that limit and tip-toed over the line, venturing into the unknown. Gordon walked down the boat ramp and started swimming towards the island, while Josh and I made our way to the south pier where we would join him on his return. The swim was on par with previous attempts; the initial shock of the water, breathing was under control, etc. The last 75 yards I was really starting to get used to the cold and slightly counteract the effects. When I reached the finish at the ramp my body had the usual tiny bumps but to my surprise I couldn't really tell any difference in my skin pigment. Trying to get out and take my goggles off that seemed to be glued to my eye sockets I was a little off balance and thought it was just the slimy rocks I was trying to avoid stepping on. After falling a couple times I walked out and over to my towel. While standing there a got a little dizzy and was still off balance for a good minute or so...mild hypothermia. I only went about 180 more yards than last week but that extra couple of minutes seems to be the boundary for me personally. Look forward to seeing how far I can go next week!
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