With crossing #1 – Haro Strait – done it’s now time for crossing #2, the Juan de Fuca Strait.
A while back my crew and I reviewed the tides and currents for all three straits (Haro, Juan de Fuca and Georgia). We opted for the same 3 windows for Haro and Juan de Fuca, choosing the ideal one closer to the date, and 1 longer window for Georgia.
I am glad I did Haro first. It gave me the opportunity to test my ability in the cold water for a shorter period of time than I will need for Juan de Fuca (JDF). I am not going to lie, I have been feeling apprehensive about jumping back into JDF since I became hypothermic last year. It was a battle to get back in throughout the season and took a lot more mental toughness than I thought it would. On some days I would sit on the shore for a good 20-30 minutes before jumping in.
I am still concerned about the cold and know it is one of the biggest risks of the swims, but I am no longer afraid. I am in a good place.
On Sunday, July 28 at 5:00 AM I will once again dip my toes in the cool waters of JDF starting at Ogden Point an proceed to swim across the strait to Dungeness Spit. The swim is approximately 33 kilometres and is expected take between 10 and 14 hours. I hope to be home before 10:00 PM Sunday night!
I am grateful to my crew for once again making this incredible journey possible.
All the best to you Susan!
I will be thinking of you while I do my own swim (much, much shorter) in Whistler. Your determination and discipline will be a source of strength for me. Can’t wait to hear about your incredible adventure afterward. Wishing you calm seas!
Carole
Such power and strength in your words Susan…we all support you and encircle you as you enter the water and continue your swim..love, Diane