Open Water

Open water is not for every swimmer but for some it allows them to express themselves in a slightly insane way!

Open water training is back with a vengeance. The sea looms in June and July for Biathle swimmers brave enough or obviously insane. Bosworth Water in July for the "softees" and the Nationals in August for Open Water swimming. If you are mad and fancy a dip in iceberg laden waters - why not contact Chris Moorcroft (Biathle GB Series winner - Millfield 2006) or see Krish Mahadevan (GB Series winner - Canterbury 2006) and join the ranks of the swimmers/runners at Matlock Bath Hotel pool. * We promise very cold clear water * We promise highly professional torture * We promise a rosy glow at the end Have fun and frolics with Derbyshire Open Water

We use the excellent facilities of Matlock Bath Hotel for Open Water training. Training usually starts around mid-May and continues through to the first week in September, which means that swimmers have a tendency to develop an interesting blue colour as they swim in temperatures of 17°C or lower. Typically, training starts off with about 1 hour sessions, swimming somewhere around 3 km. Swimmers need to get used to the water temperature before they can focus on any distance work. We try and swim the distances which each individual will swim in competition giving them some idea on timing. Younger swimmers swim in 1.5 km races, whereas older swimmers swim as far as 3 or 5 km, swimming sets of typically 800m (with a variety of different programs). This very brave group gradually acclimatise to the water temperature ultimately gaining a considerable advantage over those that train only in a pool. Other hazards such as ducks, fish and things which are too horrid to mention, all have to be overcome in the race situation.

Biathle

During this coming year we will also be focusing on a biathele programme run by the Modern Pentathlon Association (MPAGB). A biathle is a run, swim and run without breaks in between!!!! Different distances depending on age. Adults are also required and encouraged to take part. Training takes place at the same venue and time as open water training - so take your pick!