Swimming to Madeline Island
The Tall Man has done most of the gardening this summer.
That’s partly because he enjoys it, and partly because I’ve spent many of evenings in the pool.
Sometime last November I decided that, after almost two decades of lassitude and increasing fleshiness, I would return to the water. After a few weeks of casual lap swimming, I decided to reach for the marginally impossible: Swimming in the 2.1-mile “Point to Point” race.
The race runs from Bayfield to Madeline Island in Lake Superior, and will be held Aug. 4.
I’m anxious and excited about returning to the water at 46-years-old.
I’m about the size a manatee and can swim as well as one, too. Still, I suspect I’ll feel as vulnerable as one of those lumbering sea cows amid all of the athletes who show up at those sorts of events.
The Tall Man will be at state fair during race weekend. However, he’s been very supportive, breaking into “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” whenever the mood strikes him.
What’s the most out of character thing you’ve ever done? And how did you brace yourself for the moment? I could use the advice.
Jul 26, 2012 at 6:21 p.m.
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OOOOOOOOH! You are brave and courageous! I would probably swim in circles and sink to the bottom. I wish you well woman! My boyfriend and I will be there to cheer you on. I still think that we should bring a can of Crisco to apply before you put the wet suit on. Dang it is going to be COLD! I think the Tall Man will be amazed at your I think the most out of character thing I have ever done is ........dang, I can't think of anything I have done out of character....I am very predictable.
Jul 25, 2012 at 4:29 p.m.
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Swim, Cathy, Swim!
Jul 25, 2012 at 2:17 p.m.
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As a veteran of many open water long distance swims, get into a rhythm that is comfortable.
Once you are in the zone, you will enjoy the journey. Have a blast!
Jul 25, 2012 at 1:01 p.m.
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Manatees may be big and slow...but they always get there.
Go for it!
Jul 25, 2012 at 7:43 a.m.
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Hi Cathy
My wife and I will also be there swimming as well as a close friend who has done it at least 5 times. We are all from Janesville as well. It's not a race for me but just a nice swim. I am just hoping the water is closer to 70 degrees than 60. You will do great. Just swim and keep on swimming until someone tells you to stop.
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