In this issue:
"I always hear the old Jay-Z song Empire State of Mind in my head when I see the Manhattan skyline framed through the George Washington Bridge. I just get a lift in my heartbeat." Record-breaking marathon swimmer and Queen of the Ice Jaimie Monahan speaks to Outdoor Swimmer magazine about new-found lockdown skills, the romance of New York City and a roster of swims that includes swimming around Manhattan a total of 27 times – including the fastest double circumnavigation and the only quadruple circumnavigation.
Last month an unidentified swimmer set off unescorted from Dover to swim to France. After eight hours alone in the English Channel he was cold, tired and hypothermia was starting to set in. In a life-saving stroke of luck, he was spotted by the crew of Gallivant as Courtney Paulk set off on a two-way Channel attempt. Elaine's Howley recounts the story of his rescue and the often deadly history of unsupported marathon swims.
What does science tell us about cold water acclimatisation? As more and more swimmers are extending their open water season – either out of choice or necessity – Dr Heather Massey of the University of Portsmouth and the Extreme Environments Laboratory explains the science behind our reaction to cold water and how we can best acclimatise to enjoy cooler water.
With our travel options curtailed, now is the time to plan some mini Autumn Adventures. SwimTrek founder Simon Murie reveals his favourite swim spots to enjoy this season's cooler waters. With the start of the year being lost it only seems right that for this autumn at least, we all extend the duration of our open water swimming and try and swim well into October and even beyond!
Plus, more in-depth features & interviews, outdoor swimming news, training & technique, nature & wildlife and kit reviews.
