The English Channel

Next issue is our English Channel special. We look at why this particular crossing has become the must-do swim for ambitious long-distance swimmers and what it really takes to get across. Despite most people’s familiarity with this stretch of water – and the fact that on a clear day you can see from one side to the other – it remains a formidable challenge. Just how hard, we found out recently when H2Open editor Simon Griffiths volunteered to crew for Paul Newsome’s crossing. We’ve already posted Paul’s video on our Facebook page but we think the bit where he’s swimming into a 30 knot headwind and massive waves is so good it’s worth posting again here:

English Channel swimmers face many obstacles but not usually sharks. But swimmers elsewhere do, and these refined hunting machines strike fear into the hearts of many. Sadly this means they are often hunted down and killed, and if there’s one predator more dangerous than sharks, it’s man. Next issue we take a closer look at these amazing creatures. Other topics to look out for in next issue include Joel Enoch’s nutrition piece on piling on the pounds for cold water swimming (and how much difference it makes) and a review of the fabulous King and Queen of Sea Swim in Brazil (don’t we all wish we could be there).