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: Natasha
Age: 45
Typical dress size: 16, Height - 5ft 7in
Wetsuit size: 2XL
Swim/Triathlon event: Dock2Dock
Distance: 1.5km
Weather conditions: warm but cloudy
Water temperature: 22.5° Celsius
Open Water Swimming Experience: I usually always swim in skins, so trying out a wetsuit was a first for me. I have swum in open water for a few years but this was also my first swim distance of a mile.
Tell us about why you chose this event:
I have been doing a lot of swimming in London recently and really enjoyed swimming at London Royal Docks. I decided to join this swim event as I kept hearing about it in swimming circles and how well-organised and fun it was. I have always wanted to swim a mile so thought this would be the perfect opportunity.
What drew you to Wilda and The Dart?
Originally I had entered the event to swim it in skins (just a costume), but Wilda offered me the opportunity to try The Dart. I had seen it advertised and it was so beautiful that I just had to try it out. Plus I thought the extra buoyancy might help me to swim a longer distance.
What were your first impressions after putting The Dart on? Was there anything you particularly loved about it during your swim?
I had tried swimming in wetsuits before and they didn’t move enough to let me swim
properly. But this wetsuit has been designed specifically for swimming and, when I tried it out, it was easy to move in. I have had so many comments about the striking design, which really stands out in a crowd.
Tell us about your swim! How did it go?!
I was concerned the day before the swim as it was 30 degrees and I worried I would overheat in a wetsuit. But thankfully, on the day, it was cloudy with even a little drizzle. I was really glad to be wearing the wetsuit. I found the buoyancy it provided gave me just a little extra boost and enabled me to go the distance. I finished the mile in an hour 24 minutes, the longest I’ve ever swum. There were some choppy waves in my face due to a headwind halfway through, but I chatted to other swimmers along the way. Swimming next to airplanes taxiing was weird, as we were next to London City Airport! I finished the swim with a huge grin and felt I could have kept going!
What advice would you give to someone considering their first open water swim or triathlon?
Absolutely give it a go. You never know what you can do until you try. It doesn’t matter if you are slow, just have a go.
Anything else you’d like to share about your experience?
Dock2Dock is an iconic swim in the heart of London, and everyone was incredibly friendly. I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking for an open water swimming event.
You can follow Natasha and her swimming adventures on Instagram: www.instagram.com/natashastarseeker
