24th June Coniston Water
High summer heat in the afternoon and early evening. No climb, just park and swim. Entered the water from a beach full of picnicking families, who were suddenly entertained by two men walking straight into the water, heading for the far bank. Canoeists and sailboarders were out on the water in force plus an Irishman from Dublin training for the Frankfurt Iron Man in early July. The strength of the water’s call was demonstrated by the numbers of those so called.
We swam east to west through balmy currents and cooler water. Landing on the opposite beach, we were applauded by someone who had been watching us land, then we headed back.
This swim felt different because of the numbers of people present and the fact that we were observed. It changed our practice for the swim and it felt inappropriate to plant a post or paint a mark. This spot already has its signposts and needed nothing further.
The sun reflecting on the surface was intense and we spent some time on a small headland just watching the play of light.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxxaqmYarZg
Later, over a pint in a beer garden near by, we watched the light over Coniston Old Man and toasted this day.
Paul
