Al Gale
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2 Hours

1/8/2013

1 Comment

 
I swam for two hours this morning.  That's the longest I have ever swum for, and it's only a fraction of what I have to do to complete a Channel crossing.

But I'm not pretending to be a long distance runner who is running a marathon for charity.  This was always supposed to be a challenge that would push me to my limits.  And those limits are going to be pushed and tested not just in August 2014, but almost every day until then, as I gradually build up both my stamina, and resistance to cold water (no more warm showers or baths for a year!)

In fact, even as I write, I'm thinking there is a third, equally major factor involved in all this.  And that is the ability to deal with boredom.  Swimming in a pool, doing multiple laps, is boring enough.  But without the mental factor of clocking off a lap at a time, continuous swimming in one direction, with little to look at but (possibly) the safety boat, is hardly the most exciting pursuit.  The Channel Swimming Association web site says that 50% of the challenge is mental attitude.  When I finished my swim this morning (in absolutely glorious sunshine, it must be said), I had to think to myself: all I need to do now is do all that again - another seven times.... amidst the waves and dodging oil tankers.

Gulp.
1 Comment
Greg Dukeson
13/9/2013 01:47:38

I've just been reading this and I think what you're doing is amazing! I definitely wouldn't have the bottle of determination to do it but it sounds like you have a very solid source of inspiration to get it completed.
I think living without hot showers would be a nightmare.... oh, and the level of fitness to swim that far!

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    Alan Gale

    One time soldier, part-time author, full-time training manager, husband and father.

    Swam 21.8 miles of the English Channel in August 2014 for Acorns Children's Hospice, in memory of our son, Harry Gale, raising over £13,000

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