This was the third time I've done this, I hadn't planned on it but it was going to be taking place whilst we were in the area, so I thought why not;  I did the two mile wave on Sunday.  The location at Brockhole was bigger than the one at Low Wood bay, so probably better.  The bus transfer was very easy (and scenic on an open top double decker).

The race village had a nice tent for getting changed, quite a few toilets and lots of food stalls.  There was an excellent warm up before our wave, and Bryan Burnett is surely the best announcer in the business for these events. 

Getting into the water was OK, but they certainly could have done with more matting as the floor was very rocky.  The start was, as these things are, hectic and splashy, but there's quite a lot of room to go wide.  It was slightly choppy and cold, so quite tough at times.  I did come across someone from the previous wave who had cramp, so I did wait with her until a kayaker came over - there were plenty of safety kayakers and boats around.

It should be said that this is a good event for beginners and breaststrokers - unlike some smaller events, you will have company and people going at a slower pace, but just be prepared to be overtaken by the next wave. 

There's a big crowd awaiting you at the finish and a good atmosphere.  it was nice having lots of food stalls there, and the changing tent was big and warm enough.

There was a goody bag with some food and things (including a tin of fish - it's sponsored by John West). 

The event has a big feel to it, it's great for swimmers who often have quite small fields in their races.  It's well organised, nice to do it once and in a lovely area.