Prepare to be surprised: THE JOY OF OPEN WATER RELAYS
In the world of open water swimming, the choice between relay swims (It’s About Us), support crewing (It’s About You), and solo adventures (It’s About Me) is a deeply personal one. Each aspect of this sport carries its own unique feeling, and for me, these feelings have shaped my journey in unexpected ways.
The Feeling of Us, You, and Me:
The feeling of "It’s About Us" in relay swims is a celebration of collective effort and shared triumph. It's about knowing that every stroke you take is supported by teammates who share the same waters, the same goals, and the same challenges. The camaraderie is electric, and the moments of victory are amplified when they are experienced as a group.
The feeling of "It’s About You" comes alive in the role of the support crew and boat pilot. It's a profound sense of responsibility and care, knowing that your actions directly impact the success of a solo swimmer. Being "It’s About You" is about offering unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement, and it creates a unique connection between the support crew and the swimmer.
The feeling of "It’s About Me" in solo swims is a journey of self-discovery and personal determination. It's about facing the open water alone, feeling the rhythm of your own strokes, and conquering the mental and physical challenges that come your way. Solitude can be both daunting and liberating, as you become the sole master of your destiny.
My Preference:
1. Relay Swims (It’s About Us):
My top preference in the world of open water swimming is undoubtedly relay swims. These experiences epitomize the sense of community and togetherness that drew me into this sport. Whether it's the 80-mile circumnavigation of Flathead Lake with incredible teammates or the 15-mile "Chasing the Grizzly" swims, relay swims have consistently provided moments of shared triumph. The beauty of relay swims lies not only in the challenge of the swim itself but also in the bonds forged along the way. See my favorite relay swims below.
2. Support Crew (It’s About You):
Following closely behind relay swims in my preference list is the role of support crewing. Being part of the support crew for solo swimmers has given me unique insights into the mental and physical challenges they face. It's a role where you (the support crew) can truly make a difference and contribute to someone else's achievement. The support crew becomes the backbone of a solo swim, offering guidance, encouragement, and assistance, all while fostering a deep sense of teamwork. I’ve had the good fortune to crew for several amazing swimmers in some truly remarkable waters (Martyn Webster’s North Channel and SCAR with Amy Taylor come to mind).
3. Solo Swimmer (It’s About Me):
While my extensive solo marathon swim career has included remarkable feats, it might surprise some to know that solo swimming is my third preference. It's not that I don't appreciate the individual challenge and solitude of a solo swim, but there's something about the collective energy and shared goals of relay swims that resonates with me on a deeper level. Some of my favorite solo marathon swims are Lake Zurich (26KM), Vidösternsimmet (22KM), and Ibiza-Formentera (30KM).
Favorite Relay Swims:
The 80-Mile Circumnavigation of Flathead Lake:
One of my all-time favorite relay swims was the epic 36-hour, 80-mile circumnavigation of Flathead Lake. Joining forces with swimmers like John Cole, Kate Sheridan, Amy Taylor, Valerie Teany, and Victoria Rian, we embarked on an extraordinary journey. Our teamwork was impeccable as we swam on an hourly rotation with precious five-hour breaks. When not in the water, our crew played diverse roles, from observation to boat driving, ensuring everyone had a chance to rest and support. It was a testament to the power of collaboration in open water swimming.
Chasing the Grizzly Across Flathead Lake:
The "Chasing the Grizzly" swims, spanning 15 miles across Flathead Lake, hold a special place in my heart. Whether it was with John Cole and Kate Sheridan or with the incredible teams of me, Kate, and Pat Gilmartin or Karen Dion, Wendy McNamara, and Joanne Menard, these experiences showcased the beauty of relay swims. We pushed our limits together, sharing the highs and lows of this challenging journey.
The 8-Mile Adventure Around Wild Horse Island:
Another memorable relay swim was the 8-mile journey around Wild Horse Island in Flathead Lake. With swimmers like Kate, Amy, Pat, Lewis Wright, and Erika Binger, we enjoyed the flexibility of letting each person swim as much as they desired. When not in the water, we pitched in, deepening our bonds and getting to know each other better. These adventures showcased the incredible spirit of teamwork in our local community.
No Speed Requirement:
One of the beautiful aspects of relay swims is the absence of a speed requirement. Each participant swims for their designated time, be it an hour or thirty minutes, and you're free to swim at your own pace. This inclusivity allows swimmers of varying speeds to come together, making it an ideal platform for swimmers of all levels.
Conclusion:
In a world where the spotlight often shines on individual achievements, the joy of relay swims (It’s About Us) is a reminder that we are at our best when we come together. It might be surprising to some, given my extensive solo marathon swim career, but the memories forged during epic relay swims, the bonds strengthened as part of a support crew, and the individual accomplishments of solo swims have each played a vital role in my journey. So, whether you're a seasoned open water swimmer or just dipping your toes, consider the beauty of these experiences, where it's about US rather than YOU or ME.
