Training for the North Channel

In July of 2015 I will be returning to Ireland to attempt another solo crossing of the North Channel. Last year Mother Nature provided some very strong currents off the coast of Scotland preventing me from reaching the finish line. My attempt ended after swimming 16 hours and 43 minutes in 58-59 degree water and less than one mile from the finish.  It was gut-wrenching not to finish but I was not defeated.  In the past few months my swimming has been in the early season of swim training. But, now I need to crank it up a notch and enter the mid-season of swim training (mid July to December).  This will include cross-training such as workouts on the elliptical machine, stationary bike, and weight training.  I will swim at least four days per week for 3+ hour each day. Every other week I will have a four to five hour swim in one day and gradually increase the time and continue with my normal swim schedule.  And yes, I still works as a nurse 4 days per week and help care for my three young grandchildren(ages 6, 3 and 2 years old) forty plus hours per week.  You may ask where do I find the time to train?  It takes much planning.... My days off from work and time off from caring for my grandchildren, are scheduled as my long training days.  The days that I work and care for my young grandchildren, I plan short sessions of cross training.  You are invited to follow my blog for updates every two weeks on my training.  I will post the first and third week of each month.   Happy Swimming!