Open Water Swimming

Open water swimming is physically challenging as well as potentially dangerous, especially if there are hungry predators in the water looking for a human snack, or bad weather conditions involved. Rohan Skea has had a swimming team compete in various open water events and not only understands the discipline and fitness required to enter and complete such a challenge but also the dangers.

One such event was a 20km swim in 2003 when only 40% of entrants completed the race, huge seas and strong winds battered participants continually making progress difficult and exceptionally tiring. Even the folk on the support boats suffered with many being seasick and battered from being constantly thrown around. If you’ve never been sea sick before, it is a bit like feeling constantly nausea, light headed and giddy al at the same time and there is no respite, nowhere to hide until you get back to shore.

For one boat in particular, aptly named the Titanic this particular day, a 5m open topped boat with a small cabin, the large seas and strong winds got the better of it and after taking in water due to the rough conditions it sank. Fortunately all on board were rescued.

Extreme sports pose a danger not only to their participants but also to their support teams involved. Safety whilst critical in all areas for participants and support teams should never be overlooked. Both need to be prepared for the unexpected and ensure that safety is a key consideration to participation and success.