How to swim the Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim
How I did it: I didn't even train! (Though if you’re not an excellent swimmer, you need to practice or you will drown!)
Sign up early; they fill up in late winter or early spring!
Lessons & tips: It's only a mile and a half, and you're running on adrenaline the whole time. It not like you're out in the middle of the ocean; there are people climbing all over you that you have to fight off, and you are being closely monitored for veering off-course by kayaks. I do well in cold water, so no wetsuit is no problem.
- Just keep calm, and don’t swallow sea water or it will make you sick.
- Put Vaseline under your straps to prevent chafing; my first race I was bleeding a lot from suit burns.
- Go down to Aquatic Park the night before to practice in the cove; many people will do this.
- When the parade to the ferries begins, don’t take anything. They will let you put your stuff in a bag, but avoid the hassle. When else can you walk barefoot through the streets of San Francisco at dawn in a Speedo? Also, this helps you get acclimated to the cold.
- When in the water, aim for the TransAmerica Tower.
- Stick to the left side of the pack/course; many people don’t aim correctly and get swept to the right of the opening to Aquatic Park, towards the Golden Gate, have to be rescued and never finish the swim.
- If you are not competing to place high, please let those that are take to the front of the starting line.
- Don’t forget to look around every so often, both to figure out where you are and to enjoy the breathtaking view!
Resources: Go to www.envirosports.com to sign up!
The best place to stay is the Argonaut Hotel. It is literally across the street from Aquatic Park, so you don't have to worry about finding parking on race day. They give an event discount, and the place is really nice.
www.argonauthotel.com
