OWS take 1

Recognizing that most longer distance Tri events take place in open water, I have realized that eventually I would have to practice.  While my swimming has been increasing recently, I had not yet braved the open water. Mind you, I have been invited a number of times from different people and groups.  I had even gone as far as purchasing new polarized googles for outdoor swimming.  

Well, Wednesday night was the night.  I met a group from Trident at Lake Benbrook.  

OWS is a totally different experience from pool swimming in a number of ways:  

1.  Visibility through the water is zero.  It is a little weird. 

2. Because of zero visibility, sighting becomes important.  Swimmers must lift their heads periodically to "sight" their target, most often a buoy. This leads to a break in the traditional stroke, which can lead to a scissor kick and fatigue. 

3. Unlike a pool swim, swimmers are unable to push off the wall periodically.  This, too, can increase fatigue. 

4. The panic factor. Not being able to touch the bottom or grab the wall can lead to a bit of anxiety.  

But, I did it. Sorta. 

I suspect I swam about 300m with some breaks in between.  A lot of work to do prior to PK and Austin.