The 63rd Sandown to Shanklin sea swim race takes place next month, but organisers are appealing for more kayakers or canoeists to act as safety boats due to the number of entries received.
The Pier to Pier event takes place on Saturday 15th August at 13:00 and forms a part of the Shanklin Regatta. The swim has been run on behalf of the Shanklin Regatta Committee for the last 11 years by Isle of Wight Marlins Masters Swim club.
The swim’s Safety Officer, Bob Cooper, says:
“The safety of the swimmers is our paramount concern. We are required by the insurance to have a certain number of first line safety boats to the number of swimmers who can participate. These first line safety boats are kayaks/canoeists that paddle along near the swimmers and if a swimmer gets a problem the kayaks/canoeists are immediately there to secure the swimmer.
“The Isle of Wight Kayak Club have done a super job for us for many years, and still do, but due to the nationwide respect this event holds in the sea swimming and triathlon world the number of entry’s grow each year. With over 100 entries so far we do need to have extra boats so we can accept all the entries.
“A lot of the swimmers are from clubs and they stay on the Island over the weekend, so this event is also a good advert for the Island.”
Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat host the start and are overall managers of the on-water safety cover, with additional support from Ryde Inshore Rescue and Shanklin Deep Sea Fishing Club, whose members turn out in force in powered craft to back up the kayaks.
Adrian Brown, of Isle of Wight Kayak Club says:
“Kayaks are the ideal close-in escort craft, as they can safely get close to the swimmers and provide immediate help if it is needed. Even when safety help isn’t needed, we often have to correct swimmers’ navigation, as they can’t always see too well where they are heading.
“I’d love to hear from any local kayakers, or canoeists who think they may be able to help out on the day. It’s a great deal of fun for them too, and not too difficult.”
Anyone who is interested and available should contact Adrian Brown, phone 01983 862910 or email [email protected].
More information about the event can be found at https://iowmarlinsswimclub.co.uk/2014-pier-to-pier/.
