During February of this year, I completed the Rottnest Channel Swim in a team. My teammates and I were all first-timers, so when we found ourselves at 6 am anxiously awaiting the start of the swim, we had no idea what the day was going to bring. However after several hours on the water (and some seriously impressive sunburns), we made it to Rotto.

I found myself very out of my comfort zone for this swim. Initially I was hesitant to sign up because I wasn’t keen on the idea of swimming so far from shore. Although I still found it fairly daunting, particularly during sections where we couldn’t see the bottom, the swim ended up being really enjoyable. I learnt a lot about putting my fears aside and not letting them get in the way of doing something I want to do.

During the preparation process, I learnt a lot about communication, in coordinating different details and trainings, and being proactive; seeking out information and being self-motivated to train. I also found it really valuable forming stronger connections with my teammates, who I didn’t previously know all that well.

The whole process of this swim, from preparing and training to the swim itself was incredibly rewarding and I can’t wait to attempt a duo next year.