Welcome to the Swim Report Series. From first timers to seasoned pros, The Dart has been put to the test across the UK's finest open water swimming events and triathlons. Dive in and be inspired by these bold swimmers taking The Dart on some epic adventures.
Name: Catherine @ RunaMile365
Age: 41
Wetsuit size: 2XL
Swim/Triathlon event: Blenheim Palace Weekend Warrior Triathlon
Distance: Weekend Warrior (3 x Sprint and 1 x Super Sprint)
Weather conditions: Saturday: mixed (dry/showers) Sunday: dry/sunny
Water temperature: 16-17ºc
Open Water Swimming Experience: My first outdoor swim was summer 2020 and I’ve dived head first into outdoor swimming since then, having swum lakes Windermere (11 miles) and Coniston (5.25 miles), the Thames Marathon (8 miles), Swim Serpentine (2 miles) and countless recreational swims with family and friends in reservoirs, quarries and rivers. When the weather permits, I love to swim skins to allow for more freedom of movement across my shoulders/arms but living in the UK that’s not particularly often, so I need to rely on my wetsuit being right all year round.
Tell us about why you chose this event.
When the opportunity arose to participate as a Weekend Warrior through a community group I’m part of, Women In Tri, I couldn’t say no! I’ve looked at the Weekend Warrior event a number of times over the past four years and always thought the format looked so much fun. I was keen to demonstrate to beginners and those who didn’t think they’d be fast or good enough to complete it, that it is inclusive and open to all abilities.
What drew you to Wilda and The Dart?
First and foremost, you can’t deny ‘the presence’ of this wetsuit! The colours, the pattern, the attention to detail, it naturally stands out from all the other dark and boring wetsuits on the market. Add into the mix the sustainability motives from Caitlin and Michael aka Wilda, and it’s a dream combination. I love the fact that these suits are all travelling to the UK as sustainably as possible, made from reduced carbon footprint neoprene and every single one is bespoke as the material used on the edging changes to ensure there’s little material wastage.
What were your first impressions after putting The Dart on? Was there anything you particularly loved about it during your swim?
Getting any wetsuit on isn’t particularly easy but the flexibility in the neoprene meant The Dart goes on pretty smoothly. It sits close to the body (as any wetsuit should!) and I was toasty warm when wearing it with just tri-shorts and a sports bra underneath, or when wearing a swim costume.
The most noticeable feature to me though was the buoyancy of The Dart. I literally felt like I was lying on top of the water the entire time and on the final swim of the weekend when the weather had started to turn and the wind had picked up across the lake, I felt fully supported and secure whilst swimming.
How does The Dart compare to other wetsuits you've worn?
Buoyancy, buoyancy, buoyancy! Its so much more buoyant than any other suit I’ve swam in before. In tough conditions that buoyancy gives you an added level of reassurance and definitely helps to push through the waves.
Tell us about your swim! How did it go?!
I was fortunate to swim in The Dart four different times over the course of Weekend Warrior and every time it was so easy to put on, even when still damp, during a rain shower and post-bike ride and run.
Before the first swim had even begun, I’d been asked where the wetsuit was from by three different people. I was complimented by spectators and marshals as I made my way between transition areas - it was even declared ‘Best wetsuit of the weekend’ by one of the medic marshals!
I was pleased with all of my swims over the weekend, happily mixing it up between pushing myself, drafting behind other swimmers or taking in the still and clear water whilst swimming alone between start waves.
What advice would you give to someone considering their first open water swim or triathlon?
For anyone looking for a great beginner triathlon experience, Blenheim Palace should be top of the list. The lake swim looking back at the palace, transitions overlooking the stunning grounds, a challenging but achievable bike and run course, and friendly competitors make for a memorable weekend.
For any outdoor swim always consider what makes you feel safer whilst in the water - is it the on-water safety support, the security of your tow float, or the wetsuit you’re wearing? Perhaps you prefer to swim in lakes/reservoirs compared to rivers or the sea? Outdoor swimming isn’t necessarily the time to push yourself out of your comfort zone - its more important to take the moment to relax and unwind, and you won’t do that if you’re feeling anxious.
'Thank you to Caitlin and Michael for the opportunity to swim in this beautiful wetsuit. From initial advice about sizing with Caitlin, through to delivery and race support, the Wilda experience has been perfection - thank you!'
You can follow Catherine and be inspired by her adventures on Instagram @RunaMile365.
