Nene Swim 2014

Hi all,

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, the rapeseed is in flower - time to start thinking about swimming the Nene!

For those new to the club: during the last three summers we have swum 26.2 miles of the River Nene, with the flow from Woodford to Wansford, in 13 stretches on Thursday evenings. A brilliant event in many respects: socially, for training and as an adventure & achievement. So we're doing it again this year.

We measured 13 degrees today at Thorpe, which means it's already just about swimmable. It's gone up 2 degrees in the last three weeks. We were thinking of doing a first trial swim after the Middle Distance on 5 May, like last year (when it was 12.5 degrees, see photo) - but at this rate we could start earlier.

Let us know if anyone is up for a trial swim at Wadenhoe - perhaps next weekend, or an evening during the week after.

Thanks,
Jaap

Hurrah! Better get the cold shower routine going and the Jaffa cakes bought! Can't do the weekend, but could do the following Thursday. (I'm making the assumption that the swims are going to be on a Thursday again)

Mmmmm...maybe!

Hi,
We measured 12 degrees today so I suggest we wait for that midday date after the Middle Distance on 5 May, like last year.
Jaap

I see 2 people swimming down the Nene at Ferry Meadows on Friday with no suits on, they looked ok but must have been cold.

Hi jaap I'm not going to be back in time for the club tri but what time will you be heading out for the swim?

Hi jaap I'm not going to be back in time for the club tri but what time will you be heading out for the swim?

We have the pool in Oundle for the Mid-Distance from 9:00am so will start the Tri as soon as we can after 9:00am. After the event, when everybody is ready, we'll head down to the Boathouse and swim upstream and back. Probably sometime around 12:00 or soon after at a guess.

Inspire to Tri are starting their Rutland Water Open Water Swim's on Sunday 27th April 8:30 - 10:00am.

http://inspire2tri.com/programmes/open-water-swimming-2/open-water-swimming-events-in-rutland-water/2013-swim-season

These cost £7:50 and will be well supported by the local Open Water Swimmers. Booking is essential.

I'll be around - watching the Rutland Cicle Professional Cycle Race though.

Hi,
We measured 14ish degrees yesterday at Lilford - not balmy but warmer than our first swim last year, so it's definitely on. I'll send round an email to all.
Jaap

Oh wow, I've been looking forward to this all winter. I'm in. Gwil

Hi Jaap. I'd like to come along for the swim. Hopefully there will be some slower swimmers there to keep me company..... pleeease...!

Looking to do 3 swims on Monday:

Mid-Distance, Nene swim plus Oundle in the evening.

I hope to swim Nene Monday

Hi,

We measured the temperature today and it was again just about 14 degrees, so we are good to go.

We are going to have to take liability more seriously this year, in line with club policies around races. So we are planning to have a risk assessment form, pre-swim briefing and signing in and out forms. Watch this space.

Jaap

Hi, what time and where is the meeting place for the swim in the nene today? Unfortunately I don't know Oundle too well so am I best just turning up to the school swimming pool car park at about 11.45. ?
Thanks David

25 of us in the River Nene just after 12:00pm. Must be a record. 14.5 degrees.

Yes, the previous record was 19, very good. See also Jemima's Facebook for pictures.

I think we should do one or two more up and down swims before starting with the two milers because it's a bit too cold for 90 minutes. In previous years we didn't start the marathon proper until late May.

How about Thursday at Wansford, 6.30 - any takers?

Hi Jaap, Sounds good! See you there.

Whereabouts in Wansford please?

By the River.

We get in opposite The Haycock, immediately south of the Bridge, on the Elton Road. Park on the road outside the Haycock.

Yep, meet at 6.30, see email to club just now.

Ok thanks.
Hopefully I'll be there.

Hi jalap unfortunately I won't be able to make the swim tonight

Nine swimmers at Wansford this evening. Very good for early May. More women than men as Georgina pointed out. Probably same place and time next week: a nice flow but still a bit cold for a full swim.

Ten swimmers at Wansford last Thursday. Most made it to the lock this time.

We measured 17 degrees at Thrapston today, so the time is right to start the Nene Marathon from Woodford this Thursday. I'll send an email to the club today.

Jaap

Hi all,

Now that summer is arriving, it's time to start the full Nene swim from Woodford this Thursday. I'll send an email to the whole club, we'll see how many turn up. I think we are one week earlier than previous years, but it would be good to make a start if we want to get to Wansford by September.

As most of you will know, this is now the fourth year that we are doing a Pactrac Nene Swim Marathon. We start at Woodford and then make our way to Wansford, 26.2miles downstream, in thirteen Thursday evenings.

The first stage is this Thursday, 22 May, from Woodford to Denford. The route is on MapMyRun: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/96296057

We will get in just upstream of the village of Woodford and swim down to Denford. MapMyRun says it's 1.73miles, so that's a lovely distance to get into it. This is a really nice, open and rural stretch of the Nene. We will have our first lock to cross and will finish at the second lock. Note that Denford is where I spotted the Nene Turtle four years ago, so I'm sure he'll be waiting for us there. (if you haven't heard that story yet, you will...).

The plan is to meet at the finish, and then share cars to the start. That makes it easier for most people to get home after the swim. So we will meet in Denford around 6.15pm, near Meadow Lane which leads to the lock where we will finish this leg. Meadow Lane is across the road from the petrol station / pub on the Denford High Street, you can't miss it.

We will then take a few cars to drive to the start in Woodford. We will park at the end of Church Street; from Woodford's village green, take one of the narrow lanes to the bottom of the village and then turn right. Note there isn't much car parking space. From the end of Church Street there is a footpath; turn left just after the gate and you'll get to the river. We will start the swim at 6.30pm. If anyone is able to bring any designated drivers along, that would help a lot with the logistics.

If you are not confident to do the whole swim, you could come to the finish and swim upstream until you meet the others. Don't do this on your own (for safety), but there may be a few others interested - best to post on the Forum.

Let me know if you plan to be there so that we know if we have to wait for you.

Thanks,
Jaap

I proably cant make Woodford for 1830, but possibly get to finish at Denford for 1900. Anyone fancy meeting at Denford to swim up to the swimmers coming downstream?

Hi Jaap. I am planning to swim on Thursday. And I will hopefully have my new wetsuit by then too (fingers crossed it will fit after waiting for it for so long!) I have also invested in one of those lovely orange floaty dry bag thingies that somebody had when we swam on Bank Holiday Monday. Will have it with me on Thursday, so will be able to take car keys for people if need be, plus any turtle-spotting equipment required.....

I wont be at swim tomorrow.

I can't make the first couple of weeks Jaap, but will be a regular from mid June.

Hi Jaap, I intend to swim tonight. If anyone wants a shorter swim I'm happy to get in at Denford. See you later

Hi, as far as I'm concerned swimming tonight is on as planned. The rain is forecast to subside before we start. Do watch out on the roads!

I only live ten mins away so I will take a view on the weather situation. It does look like it might be clearing through, so with a bit of luck I might see you in an hour or so.

Yes, agreed. We'll be in Denford at 6.15 and then we'll decide.

The thunder had moved on by the time we started, so the swim went ahead as planned. We had six swimmers who enjoyed a good current and a very comfortable water temperature - better in the water than out of it! A few swans to negotiate and the usual herd of curious cows. And it appeared there is now a very convenient canoe portage exit at Denford lock. A good start for this year's marathon - hoping to see more swimmers next week!
Jaap

Hi all,

Normally the next leg of the Nene Swim would be from Denford to Thrapston, but current road closures would make the logistics too complicated, so we are skipping that stage for now.

As a result, next Thursday's swim is from Thrapston marina to Thorpe Waterville. This will be about 2.4miles - just like an Ironman swim! (just 112 miles to ride and 26 miles to run...). See http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/fullscreen/37200472/ for this week's route. Next week's swim (down to Wadenhoe) will again be a bit shorter, at 1.9m.

The river snakes through the Thrapston lakes and Titchmarsh nature reserve on this leg, with a footpath on the bank for most of the way. We'll cross a few footbridges and then get to Titchmarsh lock and marina after about 1.8m. We'll cross the lock, and then it's just a few 100 meters to the finish. With the Nene's current at the moment it should be a breeze!

As last week, the plan is to meet at the finish at 6.15pm and then drive to the start to get going around 6.30pm. This is one of the longest swims (apart from the final leg), so we will do our best to really start on time. The finish is the Nene bridge just West of Thorpe Waterville. Thorpe is on the A605. Coming from Peterborough, take a right just before The Fox Inn. Then follow signs to Aldwincle, taking a left at the fork in the road. The finish is just a few 100m from Thorpe, at the second bridge; there are 1 or 2 spaces on the right and two more on the left. If this is full, there are further spaces beyond the bridge, or you could park on a verge in or near Thorpe.

If you've got a full car + driver anyway, then by all means go straight to the start (directions below). However, if you've got a driver and spare spaces, then please come to the finish so you can help getting others to the start. If you are late and on your own, then you can also go straight to the start and we should be able to get you back to your car afterward (but try to avoid this if you can). In any case, please let me know in advance so we can plan things, ideally on the forum, otherwise on my email (jjf_99@hotmail.com).

Getting to the start at Thrapston marina is a bit complicated if you don't know the area. The address is Meadow Lane, which is near the town centre and starts at the Thrapston sports club (Chancery Lane / Green Lane). At the sports club playing fields, take a left into the wooded and bumpy dirt road (this is Meadow Lane) and follow it until you get to a footbridge. We might be able to drive through the gate on the left, across the low bridge (to be confirmed). Otherwise we'll walk across the footbridge. From there it's a private road owned by the Middle Nene Sailing Club. We will follow this road until another gate. Our swim start is just beyond that point. Note: you can only get there by car from Thrapston town centre, not from Islip.

If you are not confident to do the whole swim, you could come to the finish and swim upstream until you meet the others. I suggest teaming up with others (for safety) - best to post on the Forum.

See you on Thursday!
Jaap

Is anyone swimming upstream from Thorpe to meet swimmers coming downstream?

Hi all,

The rain over the past week has raised river levels and there is now quite a strong flow, especially under bridges such as at Thorpe Waterville, where we were planning finish tonight. The Environment Agency have issued a Strong Stream Advice for the whole river and advise to take care on the river.

We have swum in the Nene (even this same stretch) in similar conditions before and it's very exciting, but of course also more dangerous, especially at the bridges and at the lock that we have to pass.

Ultimately it's everyone's own choice. Please let us know if you are still interested to do this evening's swim, and then we can decide on that basis. Please respond on the Forum.

Jaap

I'll be there.

The River Welland in Stamford is flowing well. Should be a quick swim tonight. Exciting times!

I'll be there.

Dave

I'll be there.

Hi,
Looks like we'll have at least six swimmers, so it's on. See you tonight.
Jaap

Hi All,

I follow the 'Oundle Marina' on Facebook. Just to alert you they have just put a message on Facebook saying the following:

"I managed to speak to Ian Cook from the EA this lunchtime and it seems there is a lot of water to come down from Northampton, which means the SSA will probably be in place until the middle of next week. Several locks have been reversed and Islip bridge is only 1.1m clearance - apparently the approach to Fotheringhay bridge is extremely dangerous, more like rapids, so please stay off the river until the SSA comes off."

Just thought I'd let you know.

Jemima

hi jaap i will be swimming will meet you at the start at half 6

Five intrepid swimmers braved the current, the cold and the invisible nettles at the exit point that I had helpfully cleared for them... But at least they will be able to say they have done a 45 mins Ironman swim, and they won't be fazed by any swim course that a race organiser might throw at them.

The river is looking a bit quieter already now, and was up to 15 degrees again when we measured at Lilford today. So I expect next week's swim from Thorpe to Wadenhoe is on. Will send details around tomorrow.

Picked up a bad bug from the swim the other night, hope everyone else was OK. I think the high waters must have flooded drains and field, washing detritus in to the river.

Sorry to hear that - yes, it happens, I usually have one episode each year. Hope you get well soon!

Hi all,

The river was fast and cold last week, but is looking more normal this week, but still with a decent flow to carry the swimmers downstream. This week's Nene swim will be from Thorpe Waterville to Wadenhoe. It's 1.9m (according to Mapmyrun), so that's quite a bit shorter than last week. The route is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/37200776.

This section is very rural and remote. It goes through fields and some woodland, past the old Church of Wadenhoe on the top of the hill, and then finishes in Wadenhoe, right next to the King's Head pub's beergarden. I once saw a Kingfisher on this stretch, so that's another type of fauna to look out for...

The plan is once again to meet at the finish at 6.15pm. There is plenty of parking space at the pub. Go into the village of Wadenhoe and turn right from Mill Lane into Church Street. The car park is at the end of the road, past the pub on the left. The address is Church Street, Wadenhoe, Northamptonshire PE8 5ST. We will then drive to the start at Thorpe Waterville to get in - see last week's message for directions. Hopefully there will be one or two non-swimmers who can drop the swimmers off at the start -please bring someone if you can twist their arm! If not, we'll figure something out.

Please confirm if you plan to come along (on the forum or by email) - if we don't know you're coming, we won't wait for you!

Jaap

Hi all,

We had nine swimmers last week with slightly slower flowing and warmer water.

This week's Nene Swim is from Wadenhoe to Lilford. This leg is the most suitable for novice river swimmers: it is only 1.4 miles long and it's easy to get out earlier as well. So if anyone is not very confident about the long distances, then this is the week to give it your first try! The route is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/39035798

We start at the King's Head pub in Wadenhoe, and will have to get out again straight away to cross Wadenhoe lock. From there the river goes through the open fields, under a footbridge and then along a wooded hillside to the lock at Lilford. We then go back in to do the final 200 meters or so to the day's finish, on the left bank, right across the river from Lilford Hall (nice view!). In order to limit next week's swim to a feasible distance, we want to get out at the far end of the field, just before the fence.

We will meet at the finish near Lilford at 6.15pm and then drive to the start in a few cars. Directions to the finish: on the A605, drive to the roundabout halfway between Oundle and Thorpe Waterville. Take the narrow road to Pilton and Lilford (to the right when coming from Peterborough). Follow the road down the hill and then over two humpback Nene bridges. We will meet at the car parking space a 100m or so past the second humpback bridge on the right. There is parking space for 2 or 3 cars, and more space on the verges nearby.

It helps if you confirm that you'll be coming along (preferably on the forum, otherwise on jjf_99@hotmail.com).

See you on Thursday!
Jaap

Hi,

This is the leg that I did last year, so will join you again this year. :)

Jemima

Hi

Do you reckon the river is warm enough now to swim in a normal swimming costume?

Vicky

There's a good open water swimming group locally, who swim throughout the year without wetsuits. We tend to wear wetsuits because that's what we race in, but we do sometimes get swimmers in without wetsuits. Everybody's different. I would suggest acclimatising first, maybe with a wetsuit if you have one, and build up to non-wetsuit. Every night seems to be different, so one week you might get away with it, and the next it will be colder again.

Hi Jaap
I'll join the swim tomorrow (12th) with my husband Nick.
See you then
Natalie

Is anyone going swimming in the river who is a bit slower, like me. Don't want to end up swimming on my lonesome. Thanks.

Hi all,

We had 19 swimmers last Thursday on a lovely summer evening. As always with the shortest leg, we had a good mixture of experienced swimmers and novices.

This week's Nene Swim is the 6th leg, from Lilford to Oundle Mill. Mapmyrun says that this is only 2.02 miles. The route is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/39514478.

We start across the river from Lilford Hall, near the road to Pilton. We will get in where we got out last week (which wasn't really that muddy...) - or closer to the road for those who are happy to do that bit twice. The river runs through quite a remote area here; not even the Nene Way footpath follows the river. The last half mile is closer to Barnwell Road, and then we get to Oundle Mill. The finish is at the lock.

As always, we will meet at the finish at 6.15pm and then share cars to drive to the start. Oundle Mill is on the road from Barnwell to Oundle, see http://www.oundlemill.co.uk/find_us.aspx. There is a lot of car parking space on the road verge next to the lock; I guess you can also park in the restaurant car park across the river.

Important note: the Oundle Town Rowing Club have their weekly training session on the same stretch and around the same time. They start from Oundle and go upstream and back. It will therefore be important that we are well-disciplined at Thursday's swim because the rowers won't be able to see us coming. As last year, I have agreed two things with OTRC's Club Captain:
- We both stay on the right side of the river (we downstream, they upstream).
- We will make sure that we each stay together in one bunch, to minimise mutual disturbance, at least until we've had our encounter. So this will take some more discipline than we have recently had. All swimmers will really have to stay within sight of each other, certainly up to when we will have encountered the rowers. This should be no problem - it's how we used to swim before: the faster swimmers can swim ahead for 10mins or so, and then wait or swim back to pick up the others.

We will of course have to make sure to all be out before the rowers get back to Oundle, which is after 8pm. Which means we will do our best to start on time - leave Oundle Mill at 6.15 to be in the water in Lilford at 6.30. If you are late, please start from the Oundle end after the rowers have set off.

And if you are a bit less speedy and confident: as always you are very welcome, but for this leg it is better to start from the Oundle end - as long as you make sure you are not swimming alone. Please place a message on the forum if you are interested in that, so that we can coordinate.

See you on Thursday!
Jaap

Thanks to everyone for putting up with my slow swimming last night. Special thanks to everyone who helped haul me aout at the end.

That was a fantastic effort Dave. Well done. The first time I swam in the river, I thought it was 1.7km and it turned out to be 1.9 miles, so I know exactly how you feel! Hope to see you next week.

Hi all,

Lovely swim last week. We had twelve swimmers 'en groupe' going downstream, and one more starting from the downstream end - not bad for a night when England is playing. No swimmers got whacked by rowing blades and no rowers got pulled into the river.

This Thursday we are swimming from Oundle Mill to Ashton. The distance is 2.13 miles, the route is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/39924614.

We start at Oundle Mill lock where we got out last week, swim past the entrance of Oundle Marina, cross one lock, then cross the A605 after just under 1 mile. This is normally the halfway point of the Nene Swim marathon, but not this time as we skipped stage 2. We then start the wide loop on the east side of the A605, through fields and along wooded hills. We will get out at an old jetty just before the next lock.

The jetty where we get out is at the bottom of a grass path that runs down from the road between Ashton and Polebrook, opposite from the Olive Grove nursery (Olive Grove Nurseries, Oundle Road, Polebrook, Northants, PE8 5LQ, http://www.olivegrovenurseries.co.uk/). There is a gate about 100m from the nursery entrance, toward Oundle. It will be possible to park on the verge of the road. We have to climb over the gate, and then it's about 100m down the track. We are not sure if it's totally legal, by the way. It's not a right of way, but at least there are no signs saying private or no access... So please be careful not to leave any litter or damage things.

As always we will meet at the finish (Ashton) at 6.15 and then take a few cars to get to the start (Oundle Mill). Please confirm that you'll be coming along (preferably on the Forum) so that we can plan transport arrangements and know if we need to wait for you.

See you on Thursday,
Jaap

I missed last week so am planning to do the 4.15 miles from Lilford to Ashton this Thursday. We'll need to hit Barnwell Mill for the regular start at around 6:30pm, so will start from Lilford at 5:30pm. Any takers? You know you want to.

Hi Jaap

Nick and I will join you tonight for the Oundle Mill to Ashton leg.

See you there...
Natalie

I'll be there tonight - see you soon!
James

Hi all,

We had 15+1 swimmers last week, so once again a sizeable group, and again a few novices. We must already have had close to 50 different swimmers this year!

This Thursday's swim is from Ashton to Cotterstock. The distance is 2.23 miles, the route is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/41609712.

The route starts at the old jetty where we got out last week (see last week's email for directions). There is a lock to cross after just a 100m or so. Then it's on toward the A605 bridge, along the Oundle boathouse, and then on through the open fields to Cotterstock Lock. That's where we get out.

Access to Cotterstock lock is over the public footpath from Mill Lane in Cotterstock, which is about 100m. The path starts at the beginning of the village when coming from the A605. There are some (but not many) parking spaces around there on the verges near the old water mill - you may have to go further into the village.

Less confident swimmers could start from the Oundle boathouse - this is exactly halfway, so just over a mile to Cotterstock.

See you on Thursday - let me know (preferably on the Forum) if you plan to come along.

Jaap

I'll be there again this week :0)

All being well, I will be there for my first Nene swim this year.

Steve

I'm hoping I'll be able to make the swim this week it will be my first Nene swim ever so looking forward to trying it out.( I think ) ha ha

Hi all,

Another good group last week, for what seemed like a tough 2.23 miles.

This week's swim is 2.0 miles from Cotterstock to Bluebell lakes, see http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/42119500

Like previous years, the people from Bluebell Lakes Fisheries are happy for us to park on their premises and get in and out of the river, both this and next week. Please make sure to respect their property and their clients! Especially with the large groups of swimmers we've been having in recent weeks.

The swim starts at Cotterstock Lock where we finished last week. The river goes around the edge of Tansor, then goes on to the Bluebell fishing lakes. We will swim around the lakes, cross Perio Lock, get back in (it's really not done to walk the last bit from there back to the cars...) and then get out at the other end of the fishing lakes, near the car park. There is a good access point across the bridge from the car park.

Do note that the Bluebell Fisheries close at 9pm so we'll have to be away by then. Car access is over a narrow and bumpy road / track that starts from the road between Tansor and Fotheringhay. Coming from Peterborough on the A605, take a right at the roundabout near Warmington; go left at the T-junction toward Tansor, and then take the small road to the right after about 400m (it has Bluebell Lakes signs). Follow the road straight ahead, onto the gravel track, between two lakes, and on to the Reception where the car park is. The address is Bluebell Lakes, Tansor, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 5HP. If you are interested in seeing some of the monsters that hopefully don't make it from the lakes into the river: http://www.bluebell-lakes.co.uk/index.html. They would eat a turtle (if not a human being).

As always, we meet at the finish around 6.15pm and then take a few cars to drive to the start at Cotterstock. Please confirm that you'll be coming along so that we can plan transport arrangements and know if we need to wait for you.

See you on Thursday!

Jaap

Unfortunately I can't make it this week. Have a good swim.

I can't come this week as I'm out cycling and then watching Max's band Disarray at The Angel in Oundle. They are playing there as part of the fringe festival. If anyone fancies coming along they are playing from 8.30pm. Post swim beers?! :)

I will be joining you for my first ever open water swimming experience!! See you Thursday evening.

I am planning on being there again.

Steve

I'll be there.

Rob

I'll be there again. :0)

James

Thank you to everyone who was swimming tonight. Had a wonderful & very enjoyable swim. Hope to see you all next week!

Hi,

We had seventeen swimmers last Thursday on a great evening for river swimming, through the remote countryside north of Oundle. This Thursday we are swimming from Bluebell Lakes to Warmington Lock. See http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/43629928. The distance is 1.97 miles according to Mapmyrun.

We start at the car park of Bluebell Lakes where we got out last week. Most of the route is through open fields, and we swim past Fotheringhay, with great views of the church and the castle site. We will cross the road there, and then swim on to the lock near Warmington, where we get out.

This is the only public access point downstream from Fotheringhay. This is the longest walk from car park to entry / exit point, so we will have to walk about 500 meters over a footpath through a field (usually with very confused looking sheep) to get to the car park. The only alternative is to swim 3.5 miles between Fotheringhay and Elton...

The car park is at the Fired Earth kitchens store and the Elton Boat Club at Warmington Mill. Go to the A605 roundabout near Warmington and follow the signs to Warmington Mill (exit toward Fotheringhay / Tansor, and then take a right after just a few meters), and you'll get to the car park. The address is Warmington Mill, Eaglethorpe, Warmington Peterborough PE8 6TJ.

As before we are meeting at the finish in Warmington at 6.15, aiming to get to the start at Bluebell Lakes for 6.30. Please confirm that you'll be coming along if you want us to wait for you.

The cakes that we've had over recent weeks were much appreciated, but it would be even better if there was some tea to go with them....

See you on Thursday,
Jaap

Sadly, I'm going to have to miss this one too. Looks like it will be a lovely warm evening, so have a great swim.

I'm out too sadly, fractured shoulder! ! Sorry to be missing it. Hope you all have a great swim.

I'd like to come on Thursday. Is there anyone going about my pace as don't really like swimming alone? :)

I'll be there, so you should have some company Jemima :0)

Good stuff. See you tomorrow.

Hi all,

Great swim again last Thursday, with 19 swimmers and a good supply of hot drinks and cakes! The photo was taken from Fotheringhay Castle hill.

This Thursday is the 10th leg of the Nene Marathon Swim. Normally this is the 11th, but we still have to go back to Denford to do the 2nd leg. So: just four to go to Wansford, but with this year's turnout I expect we'll swim on past the A1, like we did last year.

We are swimming from Warmington Lock, past Elton Park and Elton down to Elton Bridge (which is the roadbridge to Fotheringhay / Nassington). Mapmyrun tells us this is 2.04 miles.

Those who did the previous leg will know that the start is a 500 meter walk from the car park to the lock. This is a decent track through a field. We will get in at the lock and swim alongside Elton Park and its woods. There is one lock to pass at Elton, and then it's about half a mile to the bridge, where we get out. There is some car park space on the Fotheringhay / Nassington side of the bridge, but more on the Elton side, along the bridleway where the road turns toward the bridge.

The plan is to meet at the Elton Bridge at 6.15pm, take 1 or 2 cars to drive up to Warmington and start the walk to the lock at 6.30. If you can't make it you can always go straight to the start. And if you are even later, you could still join the fun by swimming upstream from Elton Bridge and meet us en route.

Finally: we have been having great turnouts over recent weeks, between 15 and 20 per leg, including quite a few novice river swimmers, which is great. It is important that everyone is aware that there are some risks associated to river swimming; that everyone is primarily responsible for their own safety (not Pactrac, not me); but that we also look out for each other. The key risk is getting hit by boats - this is why it is important to stay in groups, wear colourful caps and look up regularly. Other risks are stomach upsets (so don't swallow the water!) and trips&slips around the structures. And of course encounters with wildlife, especially turtles... We've not had any serious incidents, but I thought I'd raise awareness again so that we can keep it that way. We've drawn up a risk assessment which you can find via this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByEw-8T01JgedXJ0c2pCb0d2M0E/edit?usp=sharing. If you come along on the swim, we expect you to have seen this and be aware of the risks and mitigating actions.

Let me know if you are planning to swim on Thursday.

Thanks,
Jaap

Hope that I will be able to come along to provide some transport. Won't be swimming as it's too close to Outlaw and don't want to risk any adverse effects!!! (Usually happens once a year to me on the river swim, and I'd rather it wasn't this week!)

Great photo. It was a lovely swim. I'll be there next week. James, I hope you are coming to keep me company again. :)

No mention in the Risk Assessment of the Flesh-eating Pike, that maraud in pairs ...

Unfortunately I can't make it this week after all to help with the transport. Apologies. Have a good swim.

Steve Hope, that's no way to talk about Richard and Chris.

I'll hopefully be there. Am on a training course in Cambridge this week, so it's touch and go over whether I'll make it in time....

I'll be swimming Thursday.

Cheers

Rob

James, are you going swimming in the river tonight? I don't want to swim on my own and we seemed to be a similar pace last week.

Sorry I didn't reply Jemima, only just seen your message. My gps says we did 2.66miles tonight :0)

I mapped it out and I think it was 2.04 miles James. I really enjoyed the swim tonight. The flapjack and coffee at the end was really good too. Thanks everyone. :)

Hi,

This Thursday's swim is from Elton Bridge to Nassington, see http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/43630294.

It's 1.71 miles according to Mapmyrun, although in previous years Mariska's GPS measured 1.9 miles. Still shorter than most of the previous legs.

Good turn out again last week with 14 swimmers, including another novice (welcome Emily). A lovely evening with a very comfortable water temperature (although Steve in his shorty seemed to disagree).

We will meet in Nassington at 6.15pm. Cars can be parked at the beginning of the village when coming from Elton / Fotheringhay, near the Nene Way footpath sign that leads to and from the river. There is plenty of space on the grass verge of the road. We will then drive to Elton Bridge, to be in the water at 6.30.

The route crosses a footbridge and then goes through open countryside until you see Nassington church in the distance. There is one weir on the right bank, with about half a mile to go. The finish is at the next footbridge. Depending on vegetation and fencing there are various places to get out - last year the best spot was on the left some 20 m beyond the bridge. It's quite a long walk back to the road, so it's wise to bring flipflops. Which sounds very similar to flapjacks.

A heads-up: the next swim down to Wansford is the longest of them all, at 2.5 miles. In previous years we have done this one on a weekend because it was getting dark, but this year it should be possible on a regular Thursday evening as we are a lot earlier in the year. We might have to start a bit earlier though.

Dave ('the man with the red van') took some nice close-up photos at the end. Best email me if you want yours.

Thanks,
Jaap

Hi Jaap, will try to make it in time to join you this week but if I don't i'll swim upstream and meet you so don't wait for me.

Just a word of caution - the left hand bank (facing downstream) after the footbridge at Nassington looks like a field but is in fact someone's garden. Suggest you exit on the right - about 30m after the bridge to the left of a clump of bull rushes is a good spot.

See you there!

p.s I did about 40mins along this stretch on Saturday and was very comfortable without a wetsuit!

Hi all,

This Thursday we will swim what is normally the last stage of the Nene swim marathon. This is from Nassington (the Nene Way footbridge) down to the old roadbridge in Wansford. Mapmyrun says 2.48 miles for this one, which makes it the longest of the 13 legs. http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/43630506. It is one of the most varied and interesting routes, crossing two locks and swimming along the Yarwell caravan park.

In previous years we have always swum this leg on a weekend as it was getting dark, but we are a lot earlier in the year now. Still, in order to get out before dark we will have to be a bit more disciplined with our start time. The plan is to meet at Wansford and leave from there at 6.15pm, which should get us in the river around 6.30.

If you can't make this, or if you are not very confident with the long distance, you could swim upstream from Wansford Bridge and meet the group. Please post on the Forum if you plan to do this.

We will be picking up some take away 'luxury fish & chips' from Loch Fyne in Elton afterward (why break with a good tradition). If anyone else fancies this, let us know before Thursday so that we can order. It's about £7.

We'll continue swimming in the Nene after this week - at least the Denford - Thrapston stage that we skipped, and then probably downstream from the A1 - until it gets too dark or too cold.

Thanks,
Jaap

If anyone would prefer a shorter swim starting from Wansford I'm up for that. Let me know if interested so we can agree a meet time.

I'll be there

I'll be there

I'll be there

Hi Rob and anyone else wanting to do a shorter swim. Mariska and I are planning to meet at Wansford at 18.45 to start swimming at 19.00, hopefully to meet the hard core types coming the other way at some stage!

I will join you kate and Mariska

I wanted to do the full swim from Nassington to Wansford as it would be my longest swim to date but am conscious that I'm not as speedy as everyone else and don't want to hold everyone up.

James are you swimming tomorrow night? If so, we could swim together so as not to hold the others up.

I can't make it tomorrow (or next week) I'm afraid, it's a shame as I would have liked to have done the longest stretch too!

That's a shame James. Not sure what to do now...

Hi Jem. Why don't you go to Wansford to meet the others anyway - if there's someone there for you to swim with, all well and good. If not, we will be swimming from Wansford to meet the others, and you can swim with us. At least you will get a swim in. Just a thought.

I can't make it due to work. Sorry. Have a good swim

Thanks Kate. I'll do that. See you there.

Hi all, Mariska and I are not swimming this Thursday. I'm sure there will be others keen to do a session from Wansford or Wadenhoe. We'll be back next week.

I am keen to get in the water on Thursday if we have a group venturing out.

I'll be at Wansford

I'll probably be at Wansford on Thursday.

Wansford. 6:15pm. Swim upstream to Yarwell Lock.

Working this week, so not able to come along unfortunately. Have a good swim.

I'm not coming swimming tonight now.

Just leaving work so I won't get there tonight.

Hi all,

The Nene swim is on for next Thursday. We are going back to what is normally the 2nd leg, Denford to Thrapston. We skipped this leg in May due to roadworks but of course the whole of Woodford to Wansford needs to be swum.

We'll get in where the first leg finished, at Denford lock. We will swim through Thrapston, crossing the A14 and the old Six Arches Bridge and get to Thrapston lock. We normally do another kilometre or so along Thrapston marina to get to appr 2.1 miles - however, when we did Leg 3 on 29 May, we got in earlier, at the river boat moorings just downstream from Thrapston Lock, so we are allowed to get out early too - reducing the distance to 1.7 miles or so. The route of Thursday's leg is on http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/36511742.

Logistics
As always we will meet for 6.15 at the finish, at Thrapston Marina, and then take a few cars to drive to the start in Denford to start the swim at 6.30. If you are late and can't make it to Thrapston in time, you can always go to Denford directly and someone can drop you back there after the swim; only if needed though.

Directions
To get to the finish location in Thrapston is a bit complicated. The address is Meadow Lane, which is near the town centre and starts at the Thrapston sports club (Chancery Lane / Green Lane). At the sports club playing fields, take a left into the wooded dirt road (this is Meadow Lane) and follow it until you get to a footbridge. This is where you park the car. The swim finish is a few 100m across the footbridge. Note: you can only get there by car from Thrapston town centre, not from Islip.

For those who go straight to Denford: you can get to the lock over the bridleway that runs from the village centre (petrol station, pub).

Please confirm if you plan to come along (preferably on the forum instead of by email), so that we have an idea of numbers.

Jaap

I can't come this week. I'll be at the beer festival instead. Poor excuse, I know!

Hi Jaap. I'm hoping to come this week, but will probably be straight from work if I can get off on time. I shall therefore go straight to the start, and hopefully some kind person will give me a lift back, otherwise it will be a long swim back.... If I'm not there on time, please don't wait.

Sorry I won't be there this Thursday

Hi Jaap

I will be there. Planning an early finish to ensure I get to the finish in time.

5 intrepid swimmers braved the chill last Thursday to finish the last leg of the Nene marathon swim - so that's the fourth year done, well done all!

Mariska and I will not be swimming this Thursday. There may be others who want to swim at Wadenhoe or Wansford?

Guest swimmer Beth Brooks joined us for most of the later legs, plus dad Dave and his very useful red van. Beth asked me to post the following on the forum:
I'd like to say thank you for the opportunity to do the Nene river swim this year as it has been a wonderful experience and a real eye-opener. I have really enjoyed it- not just the swim, but meeting other people also crazy enough to go out on a thursday evening and jump in a freezing river, and of course, the unique views that you get from being in the river and not just on the banks (even though the getting out and walking over nettles was not so enjoyable). I'd just like to say a massive thank you to all of you for making my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Physical section so much more enjoyable and so very different! Who knows, you may have to put up with me next year as well!
Thanks for everything,
Beth.

I've just had call from Matt working in Peterborough from Balanced Performance Tri, who would like to join river swim tomorrow, not sure what I am doing, anyone going

Hi Georgina,
I am up for a swim. Where do you normally meet now the Nene marathon is over? I will post on FB too.

I won't be swimming this week as I am racing Saturday. Hopefully there will still be a few out next Thursday as the river isn't cold enough to stop just yet!

Chris think we better forget about swim later as only you and me sorry

Jaap is away for the next 2 Thursday's, so the plan is to meet at Wansford at 6:15pm this Thursday 4th Sept for an out and back swim towards Yarwell Lock. Meet opposite The Haycock.

Venue for 11th Sept to be confirmed.

I'll be their

Hope to be there too, but don't wait for me if I'm not.

Jaap is still away, so the plan is to meet at Wansford at 6:15pm this Thursday 11th Sept for an out and back swim towards Yarwell Lock. Meet opposite The Haycock.

Perhaps Jaap wasn't just imagining it after all......

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-28896634

Sorry for the delay, but just wanted to say a big, big thank you to Jaap for managing the swim each week, and for all PACTRAC'ers who welcoming me on your swims (despite being an open water swimmer and not a Triathlete).

After a false start with cold water a few weeks ago, I managed to swim the final leg (for me), Denford to Thrapston solo, on the 9th Sept. I parked at Thrapston, walked up to Denford, then swam towing my inflatable 'pull buoy bag' in which I put my clothes, flip flops, phone and keys. It was a very pleasant evening water about 17 degrees and a very nice swim. Swimming under the A14 felt a bit wierd

Look forward to next year. I have some video of our swims and will try to edit into something viewable during the winter and if there is interest from the Nene valley swim group I would be happy for you to come over to my home for 'flapjack and coffee' one cold night night to view the filming and catch up.

Finally I am Just back from swimming in Croatia (Dalmation coast) for a week with SwimTrek. I can't recommend this enough. If anyone is contemplating this type of holiday please let me know, and I can give you the heads up. I'm hooked now, and looking to my next trip.

NENE SWIMMERS : FILM & SNACKS NIGHT

Those of you who participated in the Nene valley swim last year may recall member Shaun Woodward (see previous post) filming some of the later stages of the swim (both in and out of the water) with a headcam.

After much editing work, he has been in touch to invite past and future Nene swimmers for an informal social evening at his home, at which the films will be shown, before the new river swimming season gets underway.

We are unsure of an exact date at present, but suggest a Thursday evening in 3 or 4 weeks' time. Please respond on the forum if you are interested and if so, if there are any Thursdays in Feb / March that you can't make. (or you can contact Shaun directly via shaun@papewoodward.co.uk). It’s ‘bring a bottle’ but cheese and light snacks will be provided.

Shaun and his partner Simone live in Keysoe, a few minutes drive south of Kimbolton. I understand they have plenty of space, so everyone is welcome.

Hi Jaap, I'm interested and free most Thursdays.

Hi, I'm interested, sounds like a nice evening. Will need to sort out childcare though. Will need to confirm once you've chosen a date I'm afraid....

I have Spinning in Stanground 6:15 - 7:30pm on Thursday's until the end of March ... but then there is always something on. Not sure if this affects anybody else.

With the big ETU / ITU Qualifier at St.Neots on 10th May we'll need to be in the River Nene at Oundle after the Mid-Distance Tri on Monday 4th May.

I'd really like to come to the film night, but due to my rather erratic lifestyle, I can't commit to any particular Thursday, so will just fit in with whenever it's arranged if possible - hope that's OK.

I've also entered the St Neots tri on 10th May, and also this:

http://chillswim.com/the-swims/coniston-end-to-end

Anyone else up for it?

How much is it Kate ... actually, I know the answer to that.
I might be interested if you're doing a practice session and it's on one of the two days that I have free this year!

Just a quick follow up on Jaaps earlier email, re the Nene river swimmers 'social' at my home.

I have decided to show the river swim footage on Thursday 5th March.

Anyone welcome - 7.30pm onwards, Keysoe. MK44 2HR. I'll mail my address once you let me know you are coming.

If you do plan to come along, please could you let me know simply by emailing shaun@papewoodward.co.uk or through this forum, just so I can plan accordingly. Please also pass the word on as some people may not be looking at this forum in the winter season.

Don't expect 'Scorsese' or 'Spielberg', but the short films may not be the best quality but do feature many Nene swimmers and I am sure we will have a good night.

I've just booked my next SwimTrek holiday, which this year will be coastal swims and island hopping in Sardinia in July.

Hope you can make it to the film night

Best wishes

Shaun

I can't make it, but those that are going, can you post on the Forum so that people can arrange car-sharing.

Dear all

Just a final note for and members to let me know if you are coming to the film social tomorrow evening. I need to know numbers for food. At the moment its just about 8 of us so its a soiree!

If you are coming email me on:

shaun@papewoodward.co.uk

All welcome.

Address is :-

Grange Court Barn
Pertenhall Road
Keysoe
Beds
MK44 2HR

Phone 01234 708090

Cheers

Shaun:)

Hi Shaun. Have a great evening. Unfortunately I can't make it, but perhaps it's something that could be shown at some stage, maybe on the training weekend? Just a thought.

Hi Kate

Sorry you couldn't make it Kate. Thanks for letting me know.

We had a very nice informal evening with a few river swimmers, but sadly not a single PACTRAC'er could make it.

See you soon

Best wishes

Shaun