When I entered the competition to swim the Henley Mile I could never have imagined how quickly my journey of becoming an Open Water Swimmer would progress. With the support of a group of fabulous strong women, whom I have latched myself to, this has turned into a special journey.

And on this day, we became part of the culture of a pond, but not any pond, the sanctuary space that sits secluded on Hampstead Heath, Kenwood Ladies Pond. My third swim was to aid not only my swimming prowess but to tick off a ‘bucket list’ wish for Sue for her 50^th Birthday.

We march across the Heath, shady shingly lanes, rugged hillside trails and grassy spring field. An intoxicating mix of trepidation and unfamiliar territory making my heart race.

The warm welcome at the gates with a quick run through of the do’s and don’ts and we were in.

There was nothing to hide here, women of all ages, shapes, and sizes, calmly and quietly preparing for their swim. A choice of lush heathland with benches, hideaways or changing rooms to get ready. But not one wetsuit in sight. Just ‘skins’ new terminology I have learned for swimming in a costume only, no matter how cold the water. Here I realised, I have greater fortitude than I thought, braving the 11 degree waters in merely a swimming costume and hat. ‘Winter’ swimming ceases when the temperature rises above 12 degrees centigrade.

A shorter swim, Juliette had already exited, and our joy now terminated by Sue who recognised her arms slowing so calling the shots, “we’re getting out now”. And like petulant children, Sally and I argued “why? I’m fine, just one more lap”. Thankfully Sue understood the effects of the cold and insisted we got out. The drop in body temperature when you get out is rapid, not immediate, but when it hits you know getting out was the right decision. In cold water your body shuts down the circulation of blood to the skin to keep your core warm. As you begin to warm up the process reverses: blood cools as it starts to return to your extremities, which can cause shivering. It makes getting dressed up warm all the harder but with all the triumph of success and victory.

This one experience has improved my self-esteem and given me a taste of what I’m capable of.
I’m hoping more than anything the ‘cold water swimming’ becomes a habit that is here to stay. I’m now wondering, with the official meeting of the other winners at our introductory session only a week away, what’s next?

We celebrated, feeling strong and invigorated, drinking coffee and eating birthday cake surrounded by the peaceful, natural qualities of the Ladies pond, a very special place.