From Tears to Triumph: My 33.3km Ultra Swimming Journey in Croatia
Imagine plunging into the pristine, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, only to realize that the water seeping into your goggles is not from a leak, but from your own tears. This poignant moment occurred on the third day of the UltraSwim 33.3 in Croatia, a moment when the daunting task of swimming the English Channel's equivalent distance overwhelmed me completely.
Ultra-endurance events have become increasingly popular in running and cycling, yet the realm of swimming has seen fewer such challenges—until the advent of UltraSwim 33.3. This event offers a fresh challenge: swimming 33.3km, mirroring the English Channel distance, across four days along the breathtaking Croatian coastline.
As an avid triathlete and seasoned open water swim coach, I've faced numerous aquatic challenges. However, the UltraSwim 33.3 presented a unique set of trials and triumphs, pushing me beyond the familiar triathlon distances and deep into the essence of endurance swimming.
Unveiling UltraSwim 33.3
UltraSwim 33.3 isn't just a race; it's an odyssey—33.3km of swimming split over four days in some of the most stunning waterscapes on the planet. The event spans several locations, including Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and a pilot event in Lake Geneva.
The event is structured as follows:
- Day 0: A gentle 1km swim to acclimatize.
- Day 1: Two swims totaling 9.3km.
- Day 2: An 8.2km endurance test.
- Day 3: The marathon 11.3km swim.
- Day 4: A concluding 6.9km swim, capped by a celebratory 1.2km stretch.
This event draws a diverse crowd, from seasoned Channel swimmers to triathletes aiming to enhance their aquatic capabilities, and even newcomers driven by sheer determination. The guiding philosophy of the event is both a challenge and an invitation: "This is not for everyone, but everyone can do it."
The Challenge: More Than Just a Swim
For triathletes, swimming is typically just the initial phase, a prelude to the bike and run. UltraSwim turns this concept on its head, demanding a sustained, swim-focused effort that tests both physical stamina and mental grit.
Endless Strokes: No Bike, No Run, Just Swim
The absence of a transition area means there's no respite but the next stretch of open water. This shift demands a sustainable technique and a strategic approach to energy management, starkly different from the shorter swims in triathlon.
Adapting to the Elements
The swim routes offer varied conditions—from serene bays to challenging currents—that test your adaptability and resilience. One memorable segment involved battling against waves and a disorienting current that demanded every ounce of my focus and energy.
Strategic Nourishment
Unlike in triathlons, where you might forgo nutrition during the swim, UltraSwim necessitates a well-planned feeding strategy. Stations along the route offer energy gels and carbohydrates, crucial for maintaining energy over hours of continuous swimming.
A Journey of the Mind: Emotional Ebbs and Flows
The emotional journey was as challenging as the physical. On day three, during the longest swim, I hit a mental wall. My navigation faltered, my pace slowed, and doubts crept in. It was then that the camaraderie of the event shone brightly. Fellow swimmer Kerry caught up, and together, we found new strength. The support crew, ever vigilant, provided not just sustenance but also encouragement, tossing jelly babies our way to lift our spirits.
Coping Mechanisms in the Deep
Over hours of swimming, your mind seeks strategies to cope:
- Counting strokes to distract from fatigue.
- Focusing on immediate goals like the next buoy.
- Finding solace in the rhythm of your stroke and the songs in your head.
- Drawing strength from the community of swimmers around you.
Beyond the Swim: An Immersive Experience
Flawless Execution
The UltraSwim 33.3 offers more than a physical challenge; it's an immersive experience in a stunning setting. Swimming over Croatia’s seabed, I was enchanted by the marine life and the play of sunlight through the water—a mesmerizing backdrop to our arduous journey.
The Power of Community
Perhaps the most profound aspect was the community that emerged. Bonds formed in the water grew into friendships that transcended the event, enriching the experience and providing emotional support that was as vital as any physical training.
Reflections and Recommendations
For triathletes seeking to elevate their swim performance or anyone craving a challenge that melds physical endurance with the beauty of nature, UltraSwim 33.3 is a formidable but rewarding endeavor. The event not only tested my limits but also expanded my perception of what is possible, both in the water and within myself.
As I swam the final stretch into Hvar harbor, surrounded by fellow swimmers and cheered on by spectators, I was moved to tears—not of struggle, but of profound achievement and joy. This journey was more than a swim; it was a transformative experience that I would recommend to anyone drawn to the call of the open water.
For more information and to register for your own transformative journey, visit http://www.ultraswim333.com. Embrace the challenge, and dive into an adventure that will redefine your limits and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
What is the UltraSwim 33.3 event?
UltraSwim 33.3 is a swimming event where participants swim the equivalent distance of the English Channel, which is 33.3km, but over four days around the coastline of Croatia. The event offers a unique opportunity to complete this iconic distance in a more manageable and scenic setting.
How is UltraSwim 33.3 related to triathlons?
UltraSwim 33.3 attracts triathletes who are looking to improve their swimming endurance. It's a great training opportunity for those who want to push their limits in swimming while still being part of a triathlon-focused lifestyle.
What locations are included in UltraSwim 33.3?
The UltraSwim 33.3 event is held around the coastline of Croatia. Other swim locations for the event include Montenegro and Greece, with a test event planned in Lake Geneva.
What are the logistics for participating in UltraSwim 33.3?
Participants can choose from different packages, starting at €1,800 per person, which include swims, accommodation, transfers, transport between swims, and training support. Swimmers must fly to Split, Croatia, and travel to Stari Grad, the base for the event, with further accommodations in Hvar.
What swimming distances are covered in UltraSwim 33.3?
The swimming distances during UltraSwim 33.3 are divided over four days: 4.7km and 4.6km on the first day, 8.2km on the second day, 11.3km on the third day, and 5.7km and 1.2km on the final day.
Source: https://www.220triathlon.com/blog/a-33-3km-ultra-swim-in-croatia-brought-tears-to-my-eyes-and-was-the-event-of-a-lifetime
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