I hadn't even contemplated open water swimming until 2011 at the age of 48, I just saw it one Sunday morning on TV and thought that looks fun, I'd like to try it.
The SwimTrek journey for me began in 2012 with the Gozo, Comino and Malta trip, the highlight being the swim from Malta to Gozo. It was a brave step forward, none of the family wanted to get involved and I was nervous. Was I good enough? Would I be the oldest, the slowest, the most unfit? I need never have been concerned, it was a fabulous trip, hot, sunny and so friendly, but there were jellyfish, big ones and small (this is why the trip is no longer run). Then came the Lycian Way trip in Turkey - Wow what a trip! There were no jellies, just clear blue seas, hot weather and some very special swims from Europe to Asia, not the traditional route but swimming over a sunken world war plane deep in the sea was so memorable.
Next came Montenegro, again a great trip. The accommodation was lovely and swimming in the lake bordering Albania was fab.
A couple of weeks ago I headed closer to home with the Durdle Door swim. I bought this as a 'present' for my husband Stew (initially not impressed!) aged 53. He was a bag of nerves, a runner not a swimmer and was worried about everything from the cold to currents to jellyfish to running out of steam and finishing the swim off on a boat! He loved it and came out buzzing!
Next up for me is the Three Coasts Cornwall - I can't wait!
We're waiting now for the 2017 trips to be released! We've got a couple of friends to come with us, I should be on commission!
If you're thinking of doing a trip go for it. Throughout the guides have been brilliant and if you're like me a bit older not the physique of an athlete, then book a trip, you won't regret it.
