Rockin’ the Padstow to Rock Swim
Why did Charlotte swim across the Camel Estuary?
Answer: To get to the other side.
2nd August saw the annual Padstow to Rock Swim and I actually got a place in the ballot.
Open Water swimming has been one of those activities I’ve done, but never truly thrived. I’ve been to Salford Quays, Foulridge reservoir and Sale Water Park. But today I’d receive a pasty at the end.
For a bit of context, the annual swim is open to swimmers of all abilities to raise money for Marie Curie. It gives a unique opportunity to swim one mile from Padstow to Rock across the stunning Camel Estuary. However, one of the most reassuring aspects of this is that it is manned by volunteers in boats, on surfboards and paddle boards. Any trouble and they are ready to yoink you out!
Four hundred swimmers gathered in Padstow ready to embark upon the swim across the estuary and receive their Barnecutts pasty!
A horn signalled the start and off we went.
Hoards of yellow capped swimmers descended into the clear water and the battle began.
The biggest challenge was sighting. A clear route from one side to the other was not the easiest. The solution: follow the guy in front!
Stroke after stroke, Dory’s mantra came to mind: ‘Just keep swimming!’
And then, there was land and a lovely array of yellow t-shirts and happy smiles from the volunteers. I’d done it! In 23 minutes!
What did I learn?
I actually enjoyed open water swimming and Malcom Barnecutt’s pasties taste sensational after inhaling a gallon of salt water.
Castle to Castle next?
I’ll think about it.
