I am a Channel Swimmer

That was one very tough swim , probably the hardest I have ever had to ask of my body. Even two days later I can feel the sea motion as I sit typing this blog . I will do a fuller account of my swim but for the moment .

• The highs - reaching France on a Sandy beach
• The lows - sea sickness so early on in my swim
• The laughs - Stroke technique from my coach in the middle of the English Channel
• The tears - after about 8 hours my left rotator cuff ( Shoulder and upper arm ) was killing me

I have been back in the pool for very very gentle swims , my shoulders are very sore and I am very weary too.

Physio and Massage later this week and I will be back swimming pain free very soon

Back to the boss !!

That's it for me now folk's. Today has been awesome and being involve in the whole week has been an unforgetable experience !!

The ETA for the boat is 2000 in Folkeston Harbour and I suspect that there may be a beer or two involved.

Cheers,

Andy.

And now - The Money shot !! - Congratulations from everyone Nuala !!

TheTruelly Awesome Crew !!

The last bit !!

Info

I am off for a breif bit of fresh air on my bike and will be back soon to keep the info going.

The journey back should take between two and three hours, so if you are coming to Folkeston that is a guide for you arrival time.

Andy

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She's surrounded by a mob on the beach i think! We can't see too well.

Text 24 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Done! 12hrs 55 min.

Can we all pass out now !! (Ed)

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Boat can't go any further. Wee boat with them for the last bit. My battery about to die !!

Oh no !! (Ed) !!

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Headed for beach. Nearly there!

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Landing could be tricky!

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We can see people on the beach. One more gel should do it.

Text 20 - WOW !!

OK, things are looking good! About a mile to go. Spirits are high. Chris getting in for last wee bit. We can see towns and villages and cars now clearly. Bring it on. Lets get some baguetts.

I am going to get past this b****y boat soon !!

A very determined look !!

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Hopefully about 2 hours to go! But depends on tides. Last feed was a very quick one cos needed to push on. Crew having a quite moment's R&R.

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Water 17.7 degrees. She's still swimming!

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Coming up for 11 hours! Jeeso! This girl is nuggets. Reg came out to speak to nools at the last feed - told her that the next hour is crucial for a big push - so no stopping unless for scheduled feed. Chris fast asleep. brother Ian doing a fine job of videoing. Susan's hair is like straw sticking out a midden. Hey ho! Onwards.

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Water temp is now 17.2 degrees. No issues with the cold which is fantastic. Steady progress and stroke still looking very good and strong. Chris napping in case he as another swim ahead. Tks for all the fantastic messages, much appreciated. Sun is shining - but still not warm enough for the bikini to come out!

Probably the worlds greatest coach !!