I'm back! First day of the Polar Bear Swim

Well, a lot has happened since the Swim Around the Rock. I continue to swim with the fine folks at the Dolphin Club 3 times a week.

In September, I swam the Alcatraz Invitational with my wife, Lisa. This swim was unique because I lost my goggles when I jumped off the boat and had to swim it blind.

In November, a cargo ship ran into the Bay Bridge and dumped 60,000 gallons of bunker fuel into the bay. That shut down San Francisco beaches for almost a month.

In December, we resumed swimming with a new appreciation and respect for the bay.

Today is the first day of winter and so begins the Polar Bear Swim! The Polar Bear Swim is unique to the Dolphin Club. The challenge is to swim 40 miles in the bay, without a wetsuit, during winter (12/21 – 3/21).

This morning 10 folks turned out for the 6 am swim. We all logged our first mile. The water temperature was 49 and the air temperature was 40. It was a frigid first step toward our Polar Bear Swim goal. After the swim, a bunch of us went out to a local diner to share a hearty breakfast to commemorate the first swim of winter. To me, it was the perfect San Francisco morning!

News report - Swim Around Alcatraz

Channel 5's video footage of the swim.

No humans were harmed during the filming of this news report!

Dolphin Club Movie

I wish I had brought my camera with me to the club this morning. It was the nicest sunrise I've seen in a long time. I think I'm actually enjoying swimming more now than when I was preparing for the swim around the rock.

Below is a a 5 minute documentary video from Youtube about the club. I think they did a good job of capturing the feel of the club. It might provide some insight into why I enjoy swimming in the bay.

Enjoy!

If the clip below doesn't work, the direct link is here

NEW Alcatraz Photos (No Race Report)

Well, a week has passed since the Swim Around Alcatraz. I have attempted to write a race report on a couple occassions. However, each time I stopped short. The swim had an unexpected and profound impact on me and I just felt my narrative didn't capture the swim.

It is ironic, I can easily and enthusiasticly write about seemingly insignificant events. However, I am at a loss when it comes to adequately describing the actual event.

Not to disappoint, I have some wonderful photos to share with you. My kayak pilot, Bob, took these photos with a disposible camera. These photos give you a unique perspective on the swim, the island, the conditions and the 'feel' of the event. I hope you enjoy them!

Approaching Alcatraz (35 minutes into the event).


The island was longer than I expected. I think I am trailing the blue kayak in this photo.


The water behind the island was protected, warm(er) and calm.


Check out these creepy water caves on the back side of Alcatraz.


Signature Alcatraz.


At this point there was a strong current pulling me into the island. Swimming parallel to the island was difficult. It was slow going here.


Struggling to round the island. The strongest currents and coldest water were during the part of the swim.


The start of a long swim home.


Sighting San Francisco.

Race pictures!

Here are some photos, more to come! Also, race report coming soon. Enjoy.


When you are feeling cold, just grab a two year old.


That is me at the back of the pack, but not for long!


I deeply respect every one of these swimmers.


Ominous Alcatraz - notice the kayaks, that is our route out to the island.


Coming in strong.



Finally, standing up after 2 hours of hard swimming.


My five year old was the first to greet me.


Cold and exhausted.


Look at this smile!


It is all about family.

Success! Finish time 1:54!

My first aim was to complete the swim, my second was to break two hours. I am proud to have accomplished both. My finish time was 1:54. The beach was filled with family and friends. It was an unforgettable experience. I'm so thankful to have participated in this swim. The conditions were good at the start but were really challenging as we rounded Alcatraz. I'll write a full report soon! Thank you for sharing this experience with me.

Also, lots of photos to share. Check back soon!

Race Day!

I slept soundly and got up 5 minutes before my alarm went off (5:30). After a quick breakfast and Papa-B and I are heading out. Thanks for all the support. I'll post results at noon and write a full report soon.