To swim the English Channel one needs to arrange for a pilot boat and to secure a time for the attempt. Because of factors such as weather, swimmers are given a range of dates within which they can swim. I have secured September 25th to October 1st, 2010.
Here are some general facts and figures about the swim:
How far is it across the Channel?
The swim across the English Channel typically begins in Shakespeare's Cliff (in between Folkestone and
Dover in England), and ends at or near Cap Gris Nez (between Boulogne and
Calais in France). The distance between these locations, as the crow flies, is 21 miles. However, a swimmer tends to swim a much further distance than this. This is due to the fact that Cap Griz Nez is a point and thus drops away on either side, so the swimmer has to swim a further distance if they do not "land" on the point itself. Furthermore (and more notably) there are currents and tides. Currents and tides can add a considerable distance, even double the distance, of the swim.
Who was the first person to swim across the Channel?
Captain Matthew Webb was the first person to swim,
unassisted, across the English Channel. Captain Webb completed his
swim in 1875 in 21 hours and 45 minutes.
Is everyone successful?
Historically, 10 percent of those who attempt to swim the Channel successfully make it across. However, in recent years the success rate has risen closer to 75 percent.
How long is it likely to take?
On average, the swim takes 13 hours and 19 minutes. The current record was set by Petar Stoychev on August 24, 2007. Stoychev completed the swim in 6 hours, 57 minutes, and 50 seconds.
My personal goal is to complete the swim in 10 hours or less.
What are the conditions of the Channel?
The English Channel, like any body of water, changes depending on the day, hour, minute... Seas can range from mirror calm to wave heights of close to seven feet and temperatures can range from the mid 50's to mid 60's. In addition the conditions of the water itself there are other "conditions" to consider. The most important is the traffic - each day more than 600 tankers and more than 200 ferries and other vessels cross the Channel each day. Each of these vessels is not only an obstacle, but it also brings with it exhaust, trash, and currents. Finally, the water is also full of fun things like wood, jellyfish, seaweed, and other sea creatures and unknowns -- all of these are things which a swimmer must either swim through or swim around.
What does a swimmer wear?
Regulations allow for a standard "swim costume." That means the following: a Speedo-type suit, swim cap, goggles, ear plugs and a nose clip. A swimmer is also allowed to "wear" grease - petroleum jelly or lanolin.
Do you swim alone?
To swim the English Channel a swimmer needs to hire a registered pilot boat. A pilot boat is owned and operated by someone who knows the English Channel. I have hired Lance Oram to escort me across the Channel. Lance and my friend, and coach, Andrew will be on the boat. I will be the only person in the water.
Can you eat and drink while you swim? If so, how?
A swimmer needs to eat and drink throughout the swim. Because the swimmer is not allowed to get out of the water, touch the boat, or touch a person during the swim food and drink is provided to the swimmer via pole. That is, food and drink are put on the end of a pole and "handed" to the swimmer. Captain Webb supposedly drank whiskey and ate tuna sandwiches during his swim. I don't plan on including in either on my swim, but will be sure to bring plenty of food and drink with me.
Are there other questions you have about the swim or about the English
Channel? If so, please email me at sharkytreat@gmail.com and I will
add the questions to the list - and provide answers.
