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What a glorious scene to see, 40 women ploughing through the sea, swimming along the Brighton coastline. The tide is with us, the sun is shining and the sea temperature is 18 degrees.
Every year my Friday Dippers group swims 5km. It’s the highlight of the year when all the Dippers gather to swim, raise money and unite in their love of the sea. The event is organised by Candice Davies backed by a team of volunteers, Lifeguards, a team from Blue Response Medical Cover, cheerleaders, family and friends.
Fundraising was led by June Swindell and Emily Hindle, money raised went to two charities, Sussex Cancer Fund: £2800 and for Brighton and Hove Speak Out: £1440.
The 5km swim starts at Rockwater Beach, Hove, East Sussex and we swim east hugging the coastline with a quick break half way to refuel at The West Pier with our now infamous ginger shots, cups of tea and chocolate bars. Then it is back into the water as we head towards the beautiful Brighton Pier, we swim under it, say hello to the 1000’s of starlings and start to swim our last 1000 meters on the home straight towards Sea Lanes and the sparkly finish line.
To keep us motivated in training and safe during the swim we are divided in pods (groups of swimmers) each with their own-coloured hats and lifeguards. Thank you to my Pod: Joanna, Arielle, Jane, Jo, Natalie for all our training sessions, hugs at the end, cinnamon buns and hot chocolate.
At the finish line we are greeted with medals and flower garlands, we create a colourful, noisy spectacle on the beach. It’s an impressive sight as you appreciate the pure collective energy, to propel 40 women through 5,000 metres!
We are not a group of racers, athletes, pro swimmers or professional sportswomen but we are committed year-round sea swimmers and with some extra-long swims, the power of pod training and lots of encouragement, it is surprising what can be achieved.
