Archive for March 31, 2014

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a Registered Nurse working in the Operating Room at Kelowna General Hospital. I was born and raised in Kelowna, graduating from Rutland Senior Secondary School and Okanagan College. I received my BSN from the University of Victoria. I have an 18 year old daughter graduating from high school this year. My fun time is spent skiing, hiking, cycling, running, swimming and playing the violin.

How long have you been swimming?

My whole life since learning to swim in the Okanagan Lake but my freestyle swimming really improved after taken a few private lessons about four years ago. At that time, I decided I wanted to start training for some races.

Why did you choose the Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim?

It is a goal to work towards in distance training.

Why do you want to swim across Okanagan Lake?

To achieve the goal in comfortable surroundings.

Will swimming 2.1km across a lake be an easy or difficult challenge for you?

Difficult. I only have one other competitive water race experience and that was in the Apple try-a-tri two years ago.

Do you have a fear about swimming across a lake and if so, how do you plan to overcome it?

I would only fear doing it by myself, which I wouldn’t do, so with support, I feel very safe.

Can you give us a quick overview of your training?

I swim once a week at the Parkinson Rec. Center and I plan to start swimming in the lake when the weather is warm enough. I just found out about the Gyro Beach Swim Loop, so I plan to practice on my own time there. I will also try to go to the swim clinics as advertised by this race.

What do you enjoy most about swimming?

I find it meditative when I get into a nice rhythm.

What advice would you give someone who is starting out?

Take a few lessons, join swimming clubs for training drills and support, watch YouTube videos for improving technique and practice.

What is your one killer swim tip?

Keep improving on technique.

Thanks Heather for sharing your story!