Rain,big waves and swell greeted the BEST swimmers at Southbourne for the May Bank Holiday weekend. Unlike the rest of Britain, the BEST swimmers were pleased with the conditions as they gave the team the opportunity to practice surf entries and exits and to cope with some big waves and swell. Hopefully the Channel will not throw these sort of conditions at the swimmers but perhaps it was fitting that they stayed at a local Scout camp where the moto “Be prepared” couldn’t have been more apt.
As ever expert safety cover was provided by Bill Ezekiel and his Surf Life Saving GB team (TJ, Paul, John and Jack), who are trained specifically to help those in distress in such conditions. We couldn’t train without them so HUGE thanks and we are pleased to be raising money for this very worthwhile organisation. [photos to follow]
Many congratulations to Penny Porter (Head Coach), Jonathon Bradshaw (Supporter/Adventurer), Chris Eynon (Asst coach), Jill Coughlin (Asst coach/team building) and Clare Wadsworth (Fundraising) for gaining their Surf Life Saving GB lifesaving qualifications. Penny, Jill, Jon and Chris are now qualified as Full SLSGB Beach Lifeguards and Clare is a SLSGB Beach Lifesaver.
On Sunday October 11th, the 14 eleven year old children remaining in contention for a place in the channel team had their final open water trial. Head Coach Penny Porter set them a tough task – a 40 min continuous swim, followed by a 30 min swim. The water was very cold but, despite some chaffed necks and cold fingers, every single swimmer completed the challenge. 
Yesterday 14 of BEST’s young swimmers enjoyed their first experience of sea training. On a beautiful, warm and calm September day they all travelled to Southbourne, near Bournemouth, and had a thoroughly enjoyable, and gentle, introduction to sea swimming. 
On Saturday BEST held its second open water trial at Henleaze lake and launched the project to the press. TV cameras from BBC Points West covered the launch as did BBC Radio Bristol and the Bristol Evening Post. The swimmers did an excellent job swimming 1600m in icey cold water with ease. Next selection day will be in Southbourne in two weeks time in the sea for the first time. 16 swimmers are still in the running for a place on this amazing endeavour.
