Dare to Dive: 150 Swimmers Take the Plunge at the Rother Valley's Icy Cold Water Championship
By Andrew Barton
Yorkshire
In a thrilling display of courage and determination, a brave group of 150 swimmers braved the chilling waters of the Rother Valley Country Park near Rotherham for the annual Really Cold Swim Championship. The icy waters, a mere 2 degrees Celsius (35 degrees Fahrenheit), did not deter these swimmers, who donned their swimming gear and took to the water with enthusiasm.
The championship, held over the weekend, required meticulous preparation as officials spent two hours breaking through several inches of ice to ensure the safety of the swimmers. The races, ranging from 50m to 1000m, plus relay events, showcased the swimmers' resilience and spirit. One competitor, Di Asbury, described the experience as both exhilarating and challenging, stating, 'It was the coldest water I've ever swum in, but it's such fun and it's challenging. Definitely worth a go.'
Asbury, who participated in the 1,000m race and the 200m freestyle and breaststroke events, shared her thoughts on the unique experience, 'When you get in, you have a sharp intake of breath, and then it's about controlling your breathing. But we've got a fantastic safety crew looking out for us. When you hit the end, get out, and warm up, you think, 'Have I actually done that?' It surpasses all your expectations and helps you when you get back to your normal life.'
A special 25m laned jetty pool was created in the lake for the event, and swimmers were not allowed to wear wetsuits, although caps and goggles were permitted. The competition distances, ranging from 50m to 1000m, plus relay events, tested the swimmers' endurance and skill. With safety as a top priority, participants were required to have previous cold water swimming experience and sign a disclaimer.
Organizer Leon Fryer expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, 'It was fun bringing 150 competitors from all over the country together in the ice. Safety is obviously paramount at this time of year, as you can see the lake is frozen. We had an inch-and-a-half of ice each morning, so we spent two hours breaking it up, making sure it was safe.'
The championship not only showcased the swimmers' bravery but also highlighted the importance of safety measures in cold water swimming. With a dedicated safety crew and meticulous preparation, the event was a resounding success, leaving participants with unforgettable memories and a sense of accomplishment.
