HOME

WELBECK NEWS

HOW TO APPLY

OPEN DAYS

PROSPECTUS

COLLEGE INFORMATION

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

COLLEGE FACILITIES

CAREER PATH

MILITARY AND CCF

SPORTS

SOCIAL LIFE

TRIPS AND EXPEDITIONS

SUPPORTING CHARITIES

MEDIA LIBRARY

OLD WELBEXIAN ASSOCIATION

STAFF VACANCIES (0)

WELBECK PRIVATE SCHEME (WPS)

  Welbeck RSS Feed

Lake Bala Open Water Swim (June 2011)

On Monday 13th June 14 Lower 6th students, 1 Upper 6th student and Major Reid took a day 'off' from Exercise Welbeck Trail and travelled the short distance to Lake Bala to compete in the Tri Service Open Water Swimming Competition.

It is safe to say that the atmosphere on the coach during the journey there was somewhat apprehensive especially as it had rained heavily the day before meaning the temperature of the water would be even lower then we had anticipated. However this isn’t to say that we weren't confident in our abilities, the whole team having put in a huge effort in the weeks leading up to the event with regular training and preparing ourselves mentally for the inevitable cold plunge.

As we arrived at the lake the weather was not particularly inviting with grey clouds casting intimidating shadows over the water and the high winds causing some pretty daunting waves. Despite this we were all excited and keen to put our hard work into practice. We claimed a corner of the club house and set up camp and due to our matching team kit we did cause some speculation and ended up answering many questions about Welbeck.

The event consisted of 5km, 3km and 1km swims with competitors choosing which ones they wished to enter. A few optimistic swimmers amongst us put themselves down for the 5km, but due to the cold we were advised by the race organisers that only experienced open water swimmers should attempt this 3 lap feat meaning that we were left with only two entrants – Tessa Dunford and Rory Oxborough. It was a nerve wracking start for the whole team, the two who were swimming questioning their decision and ability and fellow team mates just hoping that everything would be OK. After a tense hour and a half both swimmers had successfully completed the event and were safely back inside the club house wearing multiple layers of clothing and sipping hot drinks. This gave some of the team the confidence that everything would be OK whilst other members began seriously doubting the cold conditions.

The next event was the 3km where 12 swimmers were entered. After the arrival of more Staff to provide moral support the line up for the start was called. There were considerably more entrants in the 3km meaning that the walk into the water seemed to last forever but eventually, after a little hesitation by some at the back, everyone was in the water ready to go. The wind had picked up since the 5km meaning that the waves were more ferocious and the water seemed colder still.

Waiting at the start line was nerve wracking as the cold water was so shocking it was difficult for many to control their breathing and not to panic. The 3km was 2 circuits of a 1.5km circle. Unfortunately this time as all the swimmers were less experienced in open water we had some swimmers who were pulled out of the water and did not complete the distance. However this does not take from what they had achieved so far, and the determination from the swimmers was shown when John Ennals, having been pulled out of the water on the 3km, tried to register for the 1km after being told by the Adjutant to "move around and keep warm" – this was not a decision that was supported by the teaching Staff! Overall 6 swimmers completed the 3km - Sophie Kenny, myself, Quinn Sorabjee, Amy Gordon, Harriet Doyle and Major Reid.

Finally the 1km arrived, and whilst some of the team had gone back to the campsite and others were still warming up in the club house following the 3km, 5 students lined up for 1 lap of the circuit (the buoys had been moved in). The enthusiasm in the team was high at this point despite the previous race, and compared to the other events this was relatively short and sweet with the sun even making an appearance and the wind dying down slightly. All the swimmers completed the race with some pleasing results.

I would like to congratulate the medal winners: Sophie Kenny – 3km Gold and Rory Oxborough – 1km Silver as well as every other member of the team. It was a really enjoyable experience and hopefully one which will be repeated next year, hopefully with slightly better weather! This event highlighted the unique character of Welbexians and the attitude of the military perfectly - dedication, team support and commitment all mixed together with enjoyment.

Izzy Rawlinson, Portland 10E

---

Privacy and Cookies | Contact Us | © 2007-2012 Welbeck DSFC