» About OWC

142 Responses to “About OWC”

Sarah Higdon, on April 11th, 2008 at 8:56 pm Said:

Could you keep me updated when your workouts start? I have never done open water swimming. I started pool swimming about a year or so ago and would like to be a decent open water swimmer since it seems to be a whole other universe of swimming and it is getting a little tedious in the pool at times. Thanks
Bill Stokes, on June 12th, 2008 at 7:07 am Said:

Hi!

I’m a former college swimmer and I’ve stayed in shape since graduating with some pool swimming and a triathlon here and there. I’d like to get involved in open water again, having done a bit of it in college and since then, and I’ll be moving to Chicago in mid-July. I’d like to find out more about your organization and hopefully get involved, so I’ll search around the site a bit–just wanted to introduce myself first.
srhernan, on June 12th, 2008 at 8:17 am Said:

Hi Bill! Feel free to come on out anytime. Just keep checking the web site for new updates on swim meetups. Hope to see you soon!
Colin Scantlebury, on June 12th, 2008 at 9:05 pm Said:

Steve,
I have returned, alive and well, from the ‘Escape from Alcatraz’ triathlon. Thank you so much! I wound up with a nasty cold a few days before the race which really messed up my breathing (and strangely enough, my balance) but the temperature was really not a big deal. Our last Lake Michigan morning was much tougher than the San Francisco Bay.
I’ll see you for a training swim soon,
Colin
srhernan, on June 12th, 2008 at 9:33 pm Said:

Awesome – congrats, Colin! Yeah, those Bay swimmers have nothing on us!
Kimberly, on June 14th, 2008 at 4:01 pm Said:

Steve,

You are amazing! To think, I knew you before you were a fish.
I loved the SFB swim and look forward to seeing much more of you.

Love ya
Al, on June 16th, 2008 at 9:19 am Said:

Hello:

I’m a triathlete travelling on business this week to Chicago and was wondering when/if your group would be swimming at OSB on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning?

Many Thanks!
srhernan, on June 16th, 2008 at 10:56 am Said:

Hi Al. Unfortunately not on either day this week. But given that I get a lot of these inquiries, I’ll look into setting up some type of message board on this site. If there are any WordPress gurus out there who can advise me on this, I would be much indebted!
Meredith, on June 20th, 2008 at 8:36 am Said:

Hi,

I haven’t had any experience yet swimming in lake Michigan, and I’m wondering if it’s ok to just wear a regular bathing suit or if there’s some sort of option between that and an all-out wetsuit. I imagine it’s quite chilly, but I’m not sure I’m ready to invest in a wetsuit just yet. Hoping to come out and give lake swimming a try sometime soon.

Thanks!
srhernan, on June 20th, 2008 at 10:04 am Said:

Hi Meredith! I only use my wetsuit for colder water temperatures. Whenever it gets warm enough (which for me is around 65F), I actually prefer to go without it. So you definitely do not need to get a wetsuit unless you plan to use it a lot. If you’re comfortable in the water without one, that’s perfectly fine.

Steve
walt henebry, on July 19th, 2008 at 10:01 pm Said:

Hi Steve I m a 59 yr old Y trainer and I swim off Gilson beach. I would love to come down and join you guys next week. Do you swim any other days besides sunday? I can do sundays in August.
Walt.
srhernan, on July 20th, 2008 at 12:28 pm Said:

Hi Walt! We’re out mostly on Sunday mornings. However, just keep checking the “Next Meetup” page. Every so often, we’ll post a get together during the week.
Diver Dave Oliva, on August 11th, 2008 at 4:30 pm Said:

I have a great photo of you from Sunday a.m.
so send me your e-mail address so i can send it to you…………
Diver Dave Oliva, on August 11th, 2008 at 4:30 pm Said:

I have a great photo of you from Sunday a.m.
so send me your e-mail address so i can send it to you…………
Diver Dave Oliva, on August 11th, 2008 at 4:30 pm Said:

I have a great photo of you from Sunday a.m.
so send me your e-mail address so i can send it to you…………
Diver Dave Oliva, on August 11th, 2008 at 4:30 pm Said:

I have a great photo of you from Sunday a.m.
so send me your e-mail address so i can send it to you…………
Diver Dave Oliva, on August 11th, 2008 at 4:30 pm Said:

I have a great photo of you from Sunday a.m.
so send me your e-mail address so i can send it to you…………
Christine, on October 26th, 2008 at 9:16 pm Said:

Glen wants to be a SwimMonster too. Any chance on getting her certified?
srhernan, on October 27th, 2008 at 6:07 am Said:

I don’t see why not! Ladder #1 has always been a dog-friendly zone. But can she climb up it unassisted?
Terry, on January 18th, 2009 at 7:38 am Said:

Steve,
I was turned on to your site and Mark’s Daily Apple by your brother Chris in Phoenix. Being originally from Chicago, and recently gone primal I really enjoy all that your and Mark’s website have to offer.
Great site!
Mahalo,
Terry
srhernan, on January 19th, 2009 at 9:32 am Said:

Hey Terry! Thanks for the great comment. Make sure to keep the big bro in line out in AZ.
Sarah, on February 21st, 2009 at 2:59 pm Said:

Would you recommend any swim areas up north? I used to swim at Ohio street during the summer, but I just moved up to Lincoln Square, and won’t be able to get there in the morning if I want to get to work on time. Anything up near Montrose?

thanks!

Sarah
srhernan, on February 22nd, 2009 at 1:16 pm Said:

Hi Sarah! I haven’t really done much swimming up at Montrose or Foster Beach. The water tends to be shallow for a long way out (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing). But they’re both pretty big beaches, so I would imagine you could go parallel to the shoreline and get a good distance workout.
diver dave, on March 8th, 2009 at 10:06 am Said:

OK LAZY BONES! ! ! CHRIS AND I PULLED THE 50 MILE ROUND TRIP TO PLAY AT LADDER #1 TODAY AS VISIONS OF SUGAR PLUMS DANCED IN YOUR HEAD.
MARCH 8 2008 SWIM REPORT. RAIN STOPPED AND HEAVY FOG STALLED OVER THE BEACH. AS WE MADE OUR WAY TO OAK ST WE RAN INTO ICE CUBE SIZE PIECES OF ICE THAT HAD SHARP EDGED AND THE WAVES WOULD BEAT THEM INTO YOU SO WE WENT WITH PLAN B AND STAYED AROUND THE AREA NORTH OF LADDER #2 AND ENJOYED THE COOL WATER.
CHRIS TOOK SOME ACTION SHOTS ON HIS CAMERA AND WITH LUCK HE WILL SEND THEM IN.
diver dave, on March 9th, 2009 at 6:13 pm Said:

HELLO DIVER DAVE.
I JUST SAW THE NEW PHOTOS OF YOU BRAVING THE VERY COLD DEEP SHARK INFESTED WATERS AND I CANNOT WAIT TO MEET YOU. I SHOULD BE IN CHICAGO THIS COMMING SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AND I WILL BRING ALONG A NEW TASTEE LITTLE TINY BIKINI AND WILL SWIM ALONG SIDE YOU TO HELP KEEP YOU WARM AND TOASTEE….
LOVE
JESSICA ALBA
XOXOXO
Mike Hanlon, on March 10th, 2009 at 11:09 am Said:

Hi – intrigued to read this. I am from the UK and was in Chicago a few weeks ago – mid-Feb 09 – and a collegue and I braved the waters, WITHOUT a wetsuit, at the little beach near the Museum of Science and Industry. The water was cold – I’d say about 1-3C – but quite bearable. We stayed in for five minutes or so.
What was intriguing were the bossy notices on the beach saying that what we were doing is illegal. Is this really the case – is swimming in open water in the winter illegal in the US?? It certainly isn’t in Britain.
srhernan, on March 10th, 2009 at 11:22 am Said:

Hi Mike. Great comment.

Chicago is the only major city in the U.S. that imposes a swim ban outside of the official open beach season (late May to early September). And even during these summer months, the city criminalizes all non-motorized water activities (i.e. swimming, kayaking, surfing, etc.) outside of the hours where beaches are patrolled by lifeguards.

We’re working on getting this swim ban changed to a “swim at your own risk” policy – which is what you have in place at the UK. And yes, “bossy” is a very appropriate way of describing the notice.

Thanks!

Steve
diver dave, on March 11th, 2009 at 9:15 am Said:

Steve…
i cannot find “next meetup” in this new format ???
srhernan, on March 11th, 2009 at 9:18 am Said:

Just click on the Twitter icon on the right hand side (it’s the light blue box with the T). That will take you directly to this link:

http://twitter.com/lakemonsters

This is a more “real time” update on upcoming swims and lake conditions.
christopher schroeder, on March 11th, 2009 at 3:43 pm Said:

Hey Steve since you,ve taken away
the next meet-up feature and switched
to the tweeter which for some reason
i can not access, all i get is pale
green background and two clouds.
Iv’e tried the light blue t icon and the
twitter link bars cannot get through
maybe because i’m using dial-up???
I hav’nt seen the new(twitter) but i
sure liked the old.

Aquaman Christopher
srhernan, on March 12th, 2009 at 10:55 am Said:

Chris, all the Twitter buttons go to the same link:

http://twitter.com/lakemonsters

You should be able to put this address in any browser and see all the details and notes on upcoming swims. Let me know if it works.
diver dave, on March 14th, 2009 at 3:55 pm Said:

3-14-2009
ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY AT THE BEACH… THE SUN WAS SHINING, WARM AIR…VERY FLAT WATER !!! THATS BECAUSE IT WAS COVERED WITH THIN ICE!!!! OH WELL STEVE AND I SWAM TO THE 1/8 MILE MAKE BREAKING THROUGHT THE ICE AND BACK TWO TIMES. THE ICE SURELY WOULD HAVE HURT IF NOT FOR THE 3MM WET SUIT ,GLOVES AND HOOD. ALTHOUGH IT WAS A HARD TO GET UP TO HIGHWAY SPEED IT SURE WAS FUN TO ENJOY OAK ST ON THIS VERY SUNNY DAY.
DIVER DAVE
P.S. STEPHANIE TOLD ME THAT SWEET LITTLE FERNANDA LOVES TO DANCE AROUNG THE HOUSE WITH HER NEW MP3 PLAYER.
diver dave, on March 17th, 2009 at 4:47 pm Said:

THE SAINT PATRICKS DAY ONE MILE SWIM HAD TO BE ONE OF THE BEST ALL WINTER LONG ,WITH THE 60 DEGREE AIR AND BEAUTIFUL SUNSHINE. THE WATER WAS ALMOST MIRROR FLAT ALSO. SPRING WILL BE HERE ON FRIDAY AND HOPEFULLY IT WILL BRING MANY PERFECT DAYS TO SWIM
DIVER DAVE
diver dave, on April 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 pm Said:

4/2/2009
OAK STREET WAS MIRROR FLAT AND 38 DEGREES AND 50 DEGREE AIR. ? ?? WHAT COULD I DO??? I SWAM OF COURSE TO GET ANOTHER COOL MILE IN . IT WAS GREAT !!!!
DIVER DAVE
diver dave, on April 5th, 2009 at 3:04 pm Said:

SPRING TIME IN CHICAGO MAKE THE FLOWERS LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL WHEN COVERED WITH SNOW ! ? WHERE IS THE HOT SUNSHINE WHEN WE NEED IT ? ONLY 47 1/2 DAYS TILL THE BEACHES OPEN………..
diver dave, on April 11th, 2009 at 4:52 pm Said:

SKUNKED AGAIN AT LADDER #1 TO MUCH CHOP AND SUNDAY LOOKS THE SAME …BOO HOO
CHRIS GOT THE TEMP AT 41 DEGREES
diver dave, on April 12th, 2009 at 6:20 pm Said:

my my my according to the marine forecast the pool will be closed untill tuesday afternoon…. due to heavy winds from the east… when will this washing machine ever cool down to allow some swimming?
diver dave, on April 14th, 2009 at 8:32 am Said:

? STEVE, WILL SPRING TIME EVER ARRIVE OR WILL WINTER CARRY ON THROUGH UNTILL FALL?
I AM BETTING WE WILL BE SWIMMING IN ICE FILLED WATER AND WATCH IT SNOW UPON US BEFORE A BREAK IN THIS WINTERS WEATHER.
christopher schroeder, on April 19th, 2009 at 12:39 pm Said:

Hey steve the weekend update is as follows
diver dave pulled off an early 1 mile swim
saturday, just missing carol who now has
joined the ranks of cold water, lake michigan
swimmers, her freind took photos and action
shots, maybe she’ll send them in to be posted.
Anyways as i returned from my 1 mile swim,
carol and her freind had just arrived so back
in i went for another 1/4 mile. Oh by the way
welcome aboard carol!!

Aquaman Christopher
christopher schroeder, on April 19th, 2009 at 12:55 pm Said:

Weather forcast, Marine forecast and all other
mumbo jumbo is wrong the only way to know
the true lake michigan conditions is by visual
verification. The marine forcast called for two
to three foot waves today, well guess what,
almost a perfectly flat surface. See what you
can do about getting a video camera attop the chess
pavillion. Anyway got in another 1 mile in today,
with a light rain falling, water temp 42 1/2 .
33 days till the beaches open!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Aquaman Christopher
Just 33 days till the beaches open.
diver dave, on April 19th, 2009 at 9:45 pm Said:

??? when is the comment how chris wears a lime green bikini and thigh high red leather boots to swim in???
Carol, on April 23rd, 2009 at 1:05 pm Said:

Hi guys:
It was great meeting you, Chris. Is anyone up for a swim on Sunday morning, I can’t make it on Saturday, and I’m really bummed about it. BTW, Steve, I would like to get a Lake Monster shirt if you still have some, just let me know how much. Looking forward to meeting you, Diver Dave and Steve!!!
srhernan, on April 24th, 2009 at 9:11 am Said:

Hey Carol. What size t-shirt do you wear? I have a few left over from the summer that might fit.
Carol, on April 24th, 2009 at 1:59 pm Said:

Hi Steve:
Med or Large if you got one.
Thanks, Carol
diver dave, on April 26th, 2009 at 9:27 pm Said:

I HEAR THAT DANNY BOYLE THE DIRECTOR OF SLUM DOG MILLIONAIR WAS DOING AN AUTOGRAPH SIGNING AND PHOTO OPP AFTER WINNING BEST DIRECTOR OSCAR !!!
Carol, on April 29th, 2009 at 7:17 pm Said:

Hi guys,
I plan on joining you on Saturday morning. So wait for me, I need help zipping up. I have not mastered that skill yet.
Carol
diver dave, on April 29th, 2009 at 9:15 pm Said:

I will have to swim early in order to attend my niece Jellys first Communion saturday morning and of course hope to see a perfect sun rise! ! ! so come a little earlier…….
diver dave
Carol, on April 30th, 2009 at 11:33 am Said:

How early? I was going to leave my house around 5, I’m not sure how long it will take, I figure about an 1 hr, traffic should be light and I have been known to have a lead foot.
srhernan, on May 1st, 2009 at 7:45 pm Said:

Okay, y’all have convinced me to get there early. Sunrise is at 5:46am (yikes!), but the cold water will keep you from nodding off!
diver dave, on May 3rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm Said:

I MADE IT @ 10A.M. SO I MISSED THE SUNRISE SO I DECIDED ON TAKING THE 3 MILE TOUR SWIMMING LADDER #1 TO OHIO STREET AND BACK. THE WATER WAS 52 TO 54 DEGREES ALONG THE WAY AND MIRROR FLAT. I TOOK ME ONE HOUR EACH WAY ALONG WITH A .15 MINUTE REST AND WARM UP @ OHIO STREET BEFORE SWIMMING BACK. MY BIGGEST MISTAKE WAS NOT EATING OR DRINKING ANYTHING BEFORE THE SWIM AND I WAS CRAZY HUNGRY THE WHOLE TIME. STILL IT WAS VERY NICE..
Carol, on May 5th, 2009 at 1:27 pm Said:

Any tips you can offer on how to swim straight? Chris knows I am not capable now of swimming straight, I move to the left. I am working on my right side breathing, so I can hug the wall better and know if I am drifting. Thanks
diver dave, on May 5th, 2009 at 5:26 pm Said:

CHRIS SHOWED ME THE MANY BRUSES AND BROKEN BONES FROM HIS SWIM DATE WITH YOU ON SUNDAY MORNING. TRUTH BE TOLD IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO SWIM A STRAIGHT LINE BUT IF YOU PICK A LAND MARK AHEAD OF YOU LOOK UP FOR IT AS YOU GO OR SWIM ALONG THE WALL AND USE IT A A REFERANCE TO PLOT YOUR WAY. WHEN THE WAVESA BIG IT TAKES MORE WORK TO FOLLOW A LINE AND NOT SWIM A ZIG ZAG PATTERN. WITH 34 YEARS IN THE LAKE AND THOUSANDS OF MILES I STILL HAVE TO PAY ATTENTION TO SWIM A STRAIGHT LINE
Carol, on May 5th, 2009 at 9:14 pm Said:

Thanks for encouraging words, I guess being only the 2nd time out, I have got something to shoot for next time. I will have to work on looking up in the pool tomorrow when I do my swim. Also, when do you get better range of arm movement with the wetsuit. I imagine when that comes off, huh?
diver dave, on May 6th, 2009 at 5:30 am Said:

THE CINCO DE MAYO SWIM WAS 53 DEGREE WATER AND I SWAM LADDER # 1 TO OHIO STREET BEACH 1 1/2 MILE. AT OAK STREET BEACH IN THE SHALLOW WATER I HIT SOME VERY COLD WATER WHICH WAS NICE FOR A COOL DOWN BEFORE THE LAST HALF OF THE SWIM
srhernan, on May 6th, 2009 at 8:02 am Said:

If it’s a race or an event, I usually follow someone who looks like they know what they’re doing. That way I can also “draft” them and save energy. But otherwise I just do what Dave suggested (i.e. “sight” off of a landmark). Also, bi-lateral breathing is a great way to balance out your forward movement.
diver dave, on May 7th, 2009 at 9:51 pm Said:

MAY 7TH ONE MILE NO HOOD , GLOVES OR BOOTS FOR A MILE. LATER I SWAM FOR 20 MINUTES WITH ONLY A SWIM SUIT IN 53 DEGREE WATER AND IT WAS GREAT…..
Carol, on May 8th, 2009 at 1:24 pm Said:

Anyone going to swim on Sunday?
diver dave, on May 8th, 2009 at 6:19 pm Said:

THE WEATHER MAN LIED AGAIN… IT WAS ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY AT OAK ST TODAY…
53 WATER AND MIRROR FLAT NO CURRENT FROM LADDER #1 TO OHIO AND BACK DURING THE 3 MILE SWIM.
I WILL TRY FOR SATURDAY EARLY A.M. AND SUNDAY SHOULD BE A SURE THING FOR A FULL DAY OF SUNING AND FUN AT LADDER #1 BATH AND TENNIS CLUB. WAIT UNTILL YOU SEE THE REPAIR WORK BEING DONE ! ! !
Carol, on May 8th, 2009 at 8:17 pm Said:

Hey Dave, what time do you think you will swim on Sunday? That is if you can handle the bruises and broken bones you get when I am in the water. I worked on lifting my head to see and it works well in the little pool, but I need the real test in the big pool!!!!
diver dave, on May 9th, 2009 at 2:17 pm Said:

5:45 … 6:00 am ish………….
diver dave, on May 10th, 2009 at 2:48 pm Said:

Mothers Day swim… Carol, Chris swam one mile and i swam 1/2 then put on the tanks to look for Christophers lost truck key. Due to an under water current it was difficult to see . if you plan to see the sunrise you had better arrive around
5 am inorder to catch it.
hopefully Steve will show up next week to give us more cold water training tips. Perhaps today he kept warm in bed with a hot water bottle and a electric blanket on high.
srhernan, on May 11th, 2009 at 4:03 pm Said:

Ha! Sounds like you all had a blast!
diver dave, on May 11th, 2009 at 4:36 pm Said:

MAY 11th SWIM WAS GOOD BUT WE COULD HAVE USED A BIT MORE SUNSHINE. WATER 50 DEGREES AND 6 TO 12 INCH CHOP BUT NO CURRENT TO THE BEACH AND BACK. i AM THINKING OF PACKING SOME BAGS OF ICE IN MY 3MM TO GET THE FEEL OF A JANUARY SWIM. I DO MISS THE VERY COLD WEATHER SWIMS.
I WILL TRY FOR A 5 MILE SWIM ON MY BIRTHDAY MAY 12TH BUT I WILL NEED THE HELP OF SOME HOT SUNSHINE TO HELP PULL IT OFF LET ALONE A NEAR FLAT WATER DAY. WISH ME LUCK !!!
Carol, on May 11th, 2009 at 4:48 pm Said:

Good Luck!!! Have a great birthday!
diver dave, on May 12th, 2009 at 4:26 pm Said:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME…….
I SWAM THE 3 MILE LOOP TO OHIO ST AND BACK AND ENCOUNTERED THE POILCE BOAT COMMING AND GOING. THE WATER WAS LIKE I WAS SWIMMING IN A HUGE WASHING MACHINE SO IT TOOK A LOT MORE EFFORT TO SWIM BUT I WAS STILL FINISHED IN 2 HOURS. THEN CANCELED THE 5 MILE ATTEMPT ( I WAS SORE AND TRIED AND COOL AND HUNGRY) PERHAPS DUE TO OLD AGE HA HA HA………….
ONE MAN TOOK HIS FIRST MILE OF THE YEAR AT OHIO ST AND A WOMAN WITH SWIM SUIT ONLY SWAM A MILE GETTING READY FOR THE HUDSON RIVER SWIM. TEMP @ OHIO ST WAS 52 DEGREES BUT I WOULD GUESS LADDER #1 WAS MORE LIKE 48. I AM PRAYING THE WEATHER MAN IS LYING AND WE GET SOME VERY NICE WEATHER SOON. ” QUIT YOUR JOB LETS GO TO THE BEACH”
Russ Scala, on May 13th, 2009 at 8:28 pm Said:

Great Job Steve

Im a former open water swimmer did key west one time, I have a research company that does advanced nutritional and hormonal testing on endurance athletes and Heart Patients,,, I would like to share our research with you ,,, on the left hand side of the front pg you will see the physicians log in ,,, there are 2 boxes in the first box type Russ second box type Scala… that will allow you to view the research abstracts and libarary….
David R, on May 14th, 2009 at 6:44 pm Said:

Happy Birthday Dave! Hope it was the best ever. The last couple days of swims have seemed colder. I thought it was me but if it’s really been closer to 48 than 53, that explains it. Of course, at 2:00pm it probably is warmer than at 6:00am. The Tribune said 55 today – I can testify that it was not close.
Good swimming,
David
DIVER DAVE, on May 16th, 2009 at 9:16 am Said:

SATURDAY A.M. SWIM WAS GREAT.. BEAUTIFUL FLAT WATER AND CHRIS,CAROL,STEVE AND I ENJOYED A MILE AND SOME COOOL DOWN FLOAT AROUND ,SANS WETSUITS AT LADDER #1.
WERE HOPING THE SUNDAY SWIM WILL BE EVEN NICER……
diver dave, on May 17th, 2009 at 3:18 pm Said:

I SHOWED A LITTLE LATE TODAY DUE TO AN ALL NIGHTER…. BRILANT SUNSHINE BUT VERY COOL WIND CHILL. THE WINDS FROM THE EAST GOT THE WASHING MACHINE GOING BUT IT WAS A FUN SWIM WITHOUT HOOD BOOTS OR GLOVES AND I NEEDED TO LET WATER INTO THE 3MM TO COOL DOWN A FEW TIMES. AT THE START OF THE SWIM 2 BIKE COPS WAVED TO ME AS THEY RODE BY BUT WHEN I GOT BACK TO THE CAR THEY HAD LEFT ME A $50.OO TICKET FOR HAVING CRYSTAL CLEAR SHIELDS OVER MY LICNESE PLATES…….. THEY ALSO GAVE THE PARKING LOT GIRL A TICKET FOR PARKING HER CAR ON THE SIDE OF THE BOOTH ???? F-IN BASTARDS. THEY ARE TRYING TO NICKLE/DIME EVERYONE…….. ONLY 5 DAYS AND THE BEACHES ARE OPEN ! ! ! ! ! !
azoomin, on May 17th, 2009 at 8:09 pm Said:

Hello everyone! New to open water swimming. I have swam as far as 5000yards/2:20 in a pool, but having some issues at swimming in open water for a fraction of that distance. Ie Galena Triathalon. I swam 660yards(?) and was over whelmed by total panic within the first 75 meters, I was swimming all over the place and hyperventalating like crazy! I was able to get my senses enough to get back on track and finish without cutting a bouy. Im looking foward to meeting u peeps and any advice would be apperciated. I plan on being at Ohio beach 5/24/09 early…. LOL i hope someone is there because i cant zip my wet suit myself….
srhernan, on May 17th, 2009 at 9:13 pm Said:

Hey there! Come on out to any of our swims. BTW, we’re usually swimming up a bit north from Ohio Street Beach over by North Avenue.
diver dave, on May 19th, 2009 at 9:59 pm Said:

HOLY CATS AFTER THE SWIM TO OHIO STREET TODAY IN 56 – 57 DEGREE WATER…. CHRIS AND I ENCOUNTERED A TOPLESS SUNBATHER WHO COULD USE A 5 GALLON PAIL FOR A BRA. AT NORTH AVE BEACH I ASKED THE SWAT TEAM COPS IF THEY WANTED TO SEE HER. INSTEAD OF CHARGING HER WITH INDENCY PERHAPS A TICKET FOR LITTERING MIGHT BE A BETTER CHARGE. THEY DID NOT WANT TO UP SET THEIR STOMACH AT LUNCH TIME…. WERE HOPING FOR GOOD WEATHER THROUGHT THE ENTIRE HOLIDAY WEEKEND ! ! ! AND A LOT OF SWIMMING IN MIRROR FLAT COOL BLUE WATER
diver dave, on May 21st, 2009 at 4:18 pm Said:

may 21 09
chris and i decided on trying to pull off a swim sans wet suits… as we hit the half mile mark we kept going to ohio street beach to see how much cooool water we could take. after a quick stop at ohio st we headed back to finish the 3 miler. i am sure we hit everything from 48 to 57 degree water on the way. there were some very very cold spots. i wished at times to have warn the 3 mill but we did survive. friday 11a.m. beaches open……
Carol, on May 21st, 2009 at 4:59 pm Said:

Ok, I think my question has been answer, I’m wearing everything for Saturday morning. Its still too cold for me to starting shedding items, maybe I can get by with out the thermal…
azoomin, on May 24th, 2009 at 7:25 pm Said:

Swam at Ohio street beach this morning w/wet suit water socks and hoodie, was actually a bit warm. Wow I think I like this open water swimming! Im going to do it again tomorrow!
azoomin, on May 24th, 2009 at 7:30 pm Said:

Where exactly? I have been fortunate that my wife was able to come out with me this morning and we will be there sometime in the afternoon on Monday. She would be in the water with me but at 5 mths preg… Ill look for others swimming tomorrow around 1pm ish.
BJ, on May 28th, 2009 at 7:04 pm Said:

Dumb question from a very recent transplant to Chicago…where exactly is “Ladder #1″?
srhernan, on May 29th, 2009 at 8:22 am Said:

Hey there! Ladder #1 is near the chess pavilion which is just south of North Avenue Beach along the bike path. You can’t miss it!
diver dave, on May 29th, 2009 at 9:07 am Said:

LADDER #1 IS LOCATED AT THE NORTH OF OAK STREET BEACH AT THE FAR END OF THE CONCETE WALL. THE CHESS PAVILION IS ON THE SIDE WALK JUST ABOVE IT. IF YOU WALK A 1/4 BLOCK TO FAR YOU WILL SEE THE NORTH AVE BEAC HOUSE THAT LOOKS LIKE A BOAT.
IF YOU PARK AT THE NORTH AVE BEACH PARKING LOT IT SO FAR IS FREE UNTILL 8AM.
WE PARK AT THE SOUTH END OF THE LOT. THE SUNRISE STARTS NOW AT 5AM SO COME EARLY TO SEE IT……
Michelle, on June 10th, 2009 at 9:16 am Said:

Hi Steve, just wanted to say I’ve enjoyed reading your blog since I found it a few months ago. I have always loved swimming in the lake and have spent years assuring people that I have never once become sick from it! It’s funny how fearful many people are.
srhernan, on June 10th, 2009 at 10:14 am Said:

Hi Michelle. Thanks for the kind words! Actually, the only “illnesses” I ever get from swimming in the lake are allergies in the spring from all the pollen floating in the water surface. But the more I swim, the less this affects me.

I think it’s important for people to get out in the elements and adapt to naturally occurring stressors such germs, allergens, and even colder water. It helps develop a healthier and more resilient immune system. Plus it’s fun!
diver dave, on June 11th, 2009 at 2:43 pm Said:

ALOHA MICHELLE
IN THE 34 YEARS OF SWIMMING I FIND MOST PEOPLE ARE SCARED OF SHARKS. YES SHARKS IN LAKE MICHIGAN !!!! I GUESS THEY FEEL SINCE THE GREAT LAKES ARE CONNECTED TO THE SAINT LAWERANCE SEA WAY WHICH HOOKS INTO THE ATLANTIC OCEAN THAT THE SHARKS SWIM IN TO ENJOY SOME DEEP DISH PIZZA AND HOT DOGS IN CHICAGO. NEXT THEY WORRY ABOUT THE POLUTION IN THE WATER… I CARRY TOILET PAPER TO DRY OFF AFTER ALL MY SWIMS IN THE LAKE.
AND LASTLY IT IS TOO COLD AND DEEP FOR THEM TO ENJOY.
diver dave, on June 13th, 2009 at 12:11 pm Said:

JUNE 13 2009
WELL KIDS IT WAS ANOTHER PERFECT SUNRISE AT OLE LADDER #1 (SOME WHERE IN THE WORLD BUT NOT HERE) AS PROMISED IT WAS A LIGHT RAIN DAY AND 60 PLUS WATER TEMPERATURE.
CHRIS WAS WORKING A HEAVY BOUT WITH PIG FLU,SARS, EBOLA AND OTHER MEDICAL PROBLEMS BY GETTING IN A FEW LAPS IN THE COOL BLUE WATER. STEVE SWAM WITH ME TO THE BEACH AND WE LATER HECKELED THE RUNNING GROUPS FROM THE SAFETY OF OR WATER HOLE AS WE FLOATED AROUND AND RELAXED AND PRAYED FOR SOME REAL SUNSHINE. AS USUAL THERE WERE AN AWFUL LOT OF NO SHOWS THAT HAD PROMISED TO BE THERE.
Carol, on June 13th, 2009 at 8:09 pm Said:

Yes, I admit I was a no show but for good reason, I was taking a run thru dip in my pool in the backyard to see if I can handle the temp for my Tri tomorrow, happy to report, that I’m a Lake Monster and will not be wearing a wetsuit! I
diver dave, on June 14th, 2009 at 4:19 pm Said:

ALL ALONE @ LADDER #1 FOR THE GREST SUNRISE AND FLAT CLEAR 63 DEGREE WATER TODAY. SO I SCUBA DOVE THE WALL HOPING FOR A WINNING LOTTERY TICKET OR GOLD BARS.
THE WHOLE OCHOA FAMILY SHOWED AND MOST SWAM, DANNY ONLY RODE HIS BIKE TODAY.
I SAW PAUL FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR AND HE TOOK A FEW DIPS
“QUIT YOUR JOB LETS GO TO THE BEACH”
diver dave, on June 15th, 2009 at 3:34 pm Said:

MONDAY MONDAY SO GOOD TO BE AT LADDER #1 OAK STREET BEACH….. ALMOST FLAT WATER,CRYSTAL CLEAR TOP TO BOTTOM AND 63 DEGREE WATER WITH BEAUTIFUL SUNNY SKYS.
diver dave, on June 15th, 2009 at 3:41 pm Said:

**** FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT DO NOT CARE TO PAY THE PARKING METERS AND OR THE NORTH AVE LOT PRICES TO SWIM AT LADDER #1…..
BUY A ZOO MEMBERSHIP AND GET 6 HOURS OF FREE PARKING FOR ONE WHOLE YEAR…IF YOU GO FOR THE TWO YEAR DEAL YOU WILL SAVE EVEN MORE MONEY. READ THE FORMS TO CHOOSE THE ONE WITH UNLIMITED FREE PARKING I PAID $160.00 FOR 2 FULL YEARS MEMBERSHIP. THE ONLY BAD PART IS ONCE THEIR LOT IS FULL YOU CANNOT PARK THAT DAY. I SURE GET MY MONEYS WORTH… ALSO IF YOU CAN SWIM EARLY AND LEAVE THE NORTH AVE BEACH LOT BEFORE 8AM THE PARKING THERE IS FREE ALSO……..
Carol, on June 20th, 2009 at 11:08 am Said:

Happy Father’s Day!!! Are you guy’s going swimming on Sunday? I missed today, I got home to late from Milwaukee to get up early(:
diver dave, on June 21st, 2009 at 9:34 am Said:

6/21/2009 sunday 5a.m. provided a beautiful sunrise and mirror flat 64 degree water that was crystal clear. so i had to do a 3 mile swim. it was the best of 2009.
diver dave, on June 22nd, 2009 at 4:04 pm Said:

6/22/09
67 1/2 degree water and flat and clear
“QUIT YOUR JOB LETS GO TO THE BEACH”
Carol, on June 22nd, 2009 at 4:36 pm Said:

Quit teasing me!!!
diver dave, on June 30th, 2009 at 8:56 am Said:

we will need to come up some sort of fine and or punishment for those who promise to show up and swim and yet are still missing in action week after week…. for goodness sake Chris sometimes crys so hard due to no shows that his makeup runs and gets into his eyes which causes him to swim into the steel wall and bump his head or worse swim off couses and end up heading out the SAINT LAWERANCE SEAWAY to the Atlantic ocean before tasting the salt water and swimming back to ladder #1. please do not make promises you do not intend to keep.
diver dave, on July 6th, 2009 at 8:50 am Said:

WELL WELL WELL SUNDAY @ 5 AM WAS LOOKIN GOOD WITH 67 DEGREE WATER AND NEAR MIRROR FLAT AND CLEAR… SO IT WAS TIME TO SCUBA DIVE . CHRIS OF COURSE SHOWED AND SWAM A FEW MILES….OF COURSE HE SHED A FEW TEARS SINCE NO ONE ELSE SHOWED UP FOR THE BEST DAY OF THE HOLIDAT WEEKEND….BOO HOO.
WHAT CAN I SAY??? YOU ALL MISSED A GREAT DAY AT LADDER @1
diver dave, on July 7th, 2009 at 2:36 pm Said:

July 7 2009 ladder #1
water is 67 degrees all the way to ohio st and back. no hot or cold spots. water crystal clear again with a 6 -12 inch chop. The sun was great and of course the weather man is a liar… what a picture perfect day !!!!!
diver dave, on July 15th, 2009 at 8:58 pm Said:

sunday monday tuesday the water was 69.5 to 70,5 degrees and the water was very clear…
what are you waiting for SNOW and ICE ????
“QUIT YOUR JOB LETS GO TO THE BEACH”
diver dave, on August 3rd, 2009 at 4:09 pm Said:

well kids it seems some of you missed out on the COOLEST august swim i have ever seen in 34 1/2 years of swimming here. with a 57 1/2 degree swim it brough back memories of the winter swims. Sunday morning and afternoon must have set a record.
Linette Demers, on August 16th, 2009 at 9:18 pm Said:

Hi Lake Monsters–I suppose you are all doing the big shoulders swim, right? I am just about to sign up, but last weekend’s 58 degree swim scared me–with a sunburn I looked and felt like a boiled then iced lobster by the time I’d finished half a mile! So, wetsuit, no wetsuit? 5K, then bail after 2.5k if cold and choppy? What’s a first timer to do? love to hear your thoughts.
srhernan, on August 16th, 2009 at 9:28 pm Said:

Hey Linette! Yes, a couple of Lake Monsters are doing Big Shoulders. Honestly, I’d ditch the wetsuit if I were you. The water temperature is typically in the 68F – 70F range over Labor Day weekend, and you would likely overheat in a wetsuit.

I’ve only done Big Shoulders once (in 2006),and I opted to do the 1.5K. The only reason I chose that was because the 3K is two loops – and I hate repeating loops in any event. Give me a freaky point-to-point swim any day over that!
diver dave, on August 16th, 2009 at 9:39 pm Said:

ALOHA LINETTE.. TRUTH BE TOLD YOU CAN NEVRR BE ASSURED WHAT THE WATER TEMP WILL BE… I HAVE SEEN IT DROP 15 DEGREES IN LESS THEN 24 HOURS DUE TO WIND SHIFT. DO YOUR SELF A FAVOR AND SHOW UP EARLY AND DO A SHORT WARM UP SWIM AND THEN DECIDE IT A WETSUIT IS NEEDED. THE WATER MAY BE WARM ENOUGH BUT IF THE AIR IS COLD. THE BOYSCOUTS TELL US TO BE PREPARED OR SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES. YOU’LL FIND MANY IN THEIR WET SUITS, BUT AS LONGS AS YOU HAVE PAID BE WILLING TO SWIM RAIN SUN SNOW OR SHINE TO GET YOUR MONEYS WORTH. I CAN PULL 3 MILES IN 54 DEGREE WATER BUT THE AIR NEEDS TO BE UPPER 70′S OR BETTER OR I WILL GET TOO COLD IN A SWIM SUIT, BUT I DO SWIM YEAR ROUND OUT THER SO I CAN HANDLE MUCH COOLER WATER THEN MOST. GOOD LUCK AND EJOY THE SWIM.
Linette, on August 17th, 2009 at 11:28 am Said:

Thanks–I now have a plan. I’m going to play it by ear and bring the wetsuit just in case. I’m all about getting my money’s worth and have only two goals…finish, not last.
diver dave, on September 15th, 2009 at 6:28 am Said:

! ! ! THE PARKING LOT AT NORTH AVE BEACH ! ! !
YOU CAN PARK HERE FOR FREE UNTILL THEY OPEN UP AT 9:00AM NOW AND GET AN EARLY MORNING SWIM IN….
JUST BE SURE TO BE LEAVING A FEW MINUTES BEFORE THE OPEN OR YOU WILL GET CHARGED FOR THE EXTRA MINUTE YOU WASTED STARING AT THE SUN….
ONLY 3 LADDER WERE LEFT IN BUT ITS STILL BETTER THEN NONE AT ALL. THANK YOU FOR CALLING TO ASK THEY BE LEFT IN.
diver dave, on September 19th, 2009 at 10:03 pm Said:

after braving the monster set of 30 to 40 foot waves crashing oak street this morning on our innertubes. Steve and i made it back to land ,so that Steve could make it to the beauty salon to have a shampoo ,set and hair extensions installed. i hope he dosent pick a hot pink nail polish to top off his manicure and perdicure! you all missed out on a great roller coaster ride on the lake.. it was great!!!!1
diver dave, on October 19th, 2009 at 6:10 pm Said:

IT SEEMS SOME GANG BANGER RETURNED TO LADDER #1 AND PAINTED THE LADDER AND BARS FLOURSCENT ORANGE AGAIN. THEY ARE VERY VERY BRIGHT LOOKING AND SHOULD BE EASY TO SEE ALL WINTER LONG.
Ryan, on November 1st, 2009 at 10:29 am Said:

Hi!

I’ve been an endurance athlete for years but have just started focusing on (indoor) swimming within the past couple of months. My goal is to train regularly in Lake MIchigan next spring/summer and to compete in the Big Shoulders 5K swim.

As a novice to open water swimming, what gear do you recommend me buying? Money is limited, but I want to purchase quality essentials. Do you recommend a wetsuit? If so, what are some affordable, high quality options?

Or, in lieu of a wetsuit, do you recommend more of a “speed suit” for races like Big Shoulders, where wetsuits are not permitted?

Many thanks! This site is a great resource.

Ryan
srhernan, on November 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 am Said:

Hi Ryan! I do recommend getting a wetsuit since it’s almost essential for training in colder water. Each person has a different temperature tolerance, and I usually start wearing mine when the water gets below 55F.

Now is actually a good time of year to get some great deals, too. Xterra, one of our sponsors, is offering the full suit version of their Vortex 3 for just $160. Regardless of which brand you go with, a wetsuit should last you 4-5 years, so it’s a pretty small up front cost.

Regarding speed suits, I really don’t know much about them. The lake temp during the Big Shoulders swim, as I recall, is usually pretty warm (around 65F), so I don’t think you’d need anything other than a swimsuit. And I don’t think speed suits are thermo protective, so they wouldn’t help much during the spring and early summer swims.
Ryan, on November 2nd, 2009 at 10:55 am Said:

This is great! Thanks for your quick reply, Steve. I checked out Xterra’s website and found the Vortex 3–a nice looking suit. Since I’ve never purchased a wetsuit before, is there an store in the Chicagoland area that sells these and could help me find the right size? I also like the sale price of $160!

Thanks again,
Ryan
srhernan, on November 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am Said:

Ryan, Xterra primarily does mail order which is why they can offer the deals that they do. They have a sizing chart which I used when I ordered mine, and it’s very helpful. Just one note, though. If you are on the border between two sizes, go with the smaller one. And it you have to return it for a different size, they’re pretty good about doing so quickly.
diver dave, on November 6th, 2009 at 9:58 am Said:

warning !!!!!
north ave parking lot will now have PAYBOXES for parking and i will keep you posted as to the new fees and rules ::::::: DAMN ! ! ! i was hoping for free parking alll winter long in order to swim
Ryan, on November 6th, 2009 at 11:44 am Said:

Hey, Steve, you mentioned a few days ago that Xterra is offering its Vortex 3 for $160. This might be a stupid question, but is there some sort of “sale section” to their website or a “coupon” that I could print off somewhere? I’ve been monitoring the price of this suit for a while, and it has always been listed at $400.

Thanks!
Ryan
Julie Chiron, on January 28th, 2010 at 12:30 pm Said:

Hi – I’m moving from San Francisco to Chicago and must find a way to replace my bay/alcatraz swimming. How does the open water swimming compare? What is the water temp in the spring/summer. I’m appalled to hear about the swim ban – how strictly is it enforced? Are there swim clubs, tri clubs? Basically, what’s the openwater scene in Chicago? I’m gonna miss my ocean, but the lake will be a decent replacement I hope.
srhernan, on January 28th, 2010 at 1:31 pm Said:

Hi Julie! Thanks for writing! The water temperature in Lake Michigan begins to hit the 50F+ mark around early May and doesn’t usually get below that mark until mid-October. In between those periods, there can be a LOT of variability.

The warmest time in my experience has been in late August or early September where I’ve measured water temps in the lower 70F’s. But the lake can be very fickle – as we saw with an overnight 15F temperature drop last August.

As far as comparison, you’re a lot less buoyant in the fresh water, but it’s far more pleasant if you happen to take in an accidental mouthful. And while we get choppy water and some shore currents, we don’t get anything near what you get in the Bay (at least where we swim).

Yes, the swim restrictions are quite antiquated and draconian, but that’s simply because – given the weather extremes – Chicago has not developed a year-round “beach/recreation” mindset. We’re working to change that which is why many of us get lifeguard training so there’s always “coverage” during our swims.

The open water scene here is small, and most of it overlaps the summer triathlon training season. There are tri clubs that hit it hard during this time, but we’re really the most active proponents of creating and building an outdoor swimming community.

A final note, I love the Bay area, and I always try to do at least one big swim there each year. But Lake Michigan is pretty awesome, and Ladder #1 is quite spectacular in the mornings. So come on out and join us any time!
diver dave, on February 8th, 2010 at 12:48 am Said:

HELLO JULIE…
YOU WON’T MISS SWIMMING IN THE SALT WATER ONCE YOU TRY OUT THE GREAT LAKES… NO MORE DRY SKIN , SHARKS,JELLY FISH OR SEA LIONS TO WORRY ABOUT AND THE SKY LINE VIEW IN CHICAGO IS GREAT 24 HOURS A DAY. SURE ITS JUST A LAKE BUT ITS DEPTH IS 250 FEET AVERAGE AND 926 AT THE DEEPEST POINT.
DIVER DAVE
Ryan, on February 11th, 2010 at 8:35 am Said:

I’m looking for some feedback about my progress as a swimmer, especially as I get closer to purchasing my first wetsuite.

My swimming career started six months ago in a pool, which is where it remains to this day; however, I have greatly improved since my first lap. A typical swim for me now is between 1 and 2 miles, which I can complete at a 30 minute/mile pace or slightly faster (or slower, given the day). I can freestyle swim this without rest, but I often break up my workout with drills and tempo work. I’m not sure what any of this means, though. Am I a strong swimmer? Am I a slow simmer? Am I ready for open water? Should I stick to marathon running and forget about an underwater athletic career?

Thanks for all of your feedback in advance! This is a wonderful resource for swimmers at all levels.

Be well,
Ryan
srhernan, on February 11th, 2010 at 7:15 pm Said:

Hi Ryan! I usually do a 35 or 40-minute pace, so I think your speed is pretty good. Also, you definitely have the swim endurance built up, so the transition to open water swimming should be pretty straightforward.

Your biggest challenge is going to be managing the likely lower water temperatures as well as anything else nature decides to throw at you when you’re swimming (i.e. waves, rain, wind, algae, marine life).

Check out my piece on “How to Swim in Choppy Water” for some more details on this:

http://openwaterchicago.com/2009/07/23/how-to-swim-in-choppy-water/

Otherwise, just give it a shot whenever you get a chance. You may want to wait until the water gets above 60F if you’re going in without a wetsuit. But you’re definitely ready for it.

And I would MUCH rather recommend open water swimming over marathon training!
Diana, on March 25th, 2010 at 8:10 pm Said:

Talk about Winter Warriors…. I am blown away by your winter swimming feats and favorable attitude about water under 70degrees. I am excited to come swim with you this summer… Thanks for the OWC connection.
srhernan, on March 25th, 2010 at 8:59 pm Said:

Hey Diana! Good to hear from you! Come on out any time. It’s always a fun adventure out at Ladder #1!
Stephanie Treffert, on March 29th, 2010 at 10:37 pm Said:

This seems amazing. I am training for a half ironman, and love open water swimming, but I didn’t know it was possible to train nearly year round in the midwest. Do you have any workouts for this upcoming weekend? The weather looks beautiful. For a warm weekend. what kind of gear would I need. I have a longsleeve wetsuit.

Stephanie
srhernan, on March 30th, 2010 at 9:27 am Said:

Hi Stephanie. Thanks for writing! With the appropriate gear, it is indeed possible to swim outdoors year round – even in the Great Lakes! Dave, one of our more regular swimmers, just got in the water today and reported that the lake temperature is now a balmy 42F. So we definitely plan to get in a few swims this week, and probably on Saturday as well.

You should be fine with the full wetsuit, but you may need some additional thermo gear (i.e. gloves, foot covers, neoprene cap, etc.) for these temperatures. If you don’t have any of these, let me know as we might have some spare parts floating around that could fit you.
Emily, on April 6th, 2010 at 3:35 pm Said:

Hi-

I’m a former swimmer who is interested in doing a triathlon this summer and would love to come swimming with you all on Saturday mornings. I have swam very infrequently over the past ten years or so. Last year I did the swim portion of a relay triathlon (a mile), but did not train that heavily for it. I’ve only swam a couple of times in a pool since then and am not in great swimming shape right now. I’m wondering how long your swims are and what kind of swimming shape I need to be in before I come out and join you.

Thanks!
srhernan, on April 7th, 2010 at 2:55 am Said:

Hi Emily! We get all types showing up to swim, so we don’t have specific time/distance workouts. Some of use do the 1 mile out-and-back to the beach, and others do shorter distances and stay closer to Ladder #1. Whatever distance you’re comfortable with is fine, so feel free to come on out any time!
Bryon, on April 14th, 2010 at 10:42 pm Said:

Hello Julie and Stephen,
I am going to San Francisco for my first Alcatraz swim June 6. Arriving June 2 to do the swim class with Pedro Ordenes.
The Alcatraz swim isn’t long enough to make it a real challenge in a wetsuit, so I’m doing it without.
My typical workout is 2 miles and I’ve done over 80 already this year.
Dealing with the cold water will make it a challenge.
Any hints for cold water swimming?
And how do you suggest warming up for the swim, to be ready to go at full power once making the jump from the ferry?
Thanks!
srhernan, on April 15th, 2010 at 3:06 am Said:

Hi Bryon. Thanks for writing! Congrats on the Alcatraz swim. Perdro and his swimmers are a great group, so I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time. Here are a few prior posts that have some great tips on how to manage that swim:

http://openwaterchicago.com/2009/07/02/sf-bay-swimming-primer/

http://openwaterchicago.com/2009/07/23/how-to-swim-in-choppy-water/

http://openwaterchicago.com/2008/11/24/sub-40f-swim-tips/

http://openwaterchicago.com/2008/03/24/minimizing-immersion-shock/

http://openwaterchicago.com/2008/04/23/part-3-the-mammalian-diving-reflex/

Check these out, and you’ll have no problem in SF Bay!
Liz, on April 23rd, 2010 at 1:22 am Said:

Hi Stephen,
I am actually doing the Alcatraz triathlon in SF on May 2, so have been training for that as well. I haven’t had a chance yet to do an open water swim or really try out my wetsuit, so I would love to meet up with your group Saturday morning if the weather permits! I know it’s only a week before the race, but better late than never I guess. Where is Ladder 1? And do people meet at 7am or earlier so that you are swimming by 7? Would you suggest biking down or is there anywhere to park?

Thanks for the information
Liz
srhernan, on April 24th, 2010 at 2:34 am Said:

Hi Liz. I’m definitely going to give it a go tomorrow morning (Saturday). There’s a chance of rain, but the air temperature looks like it’s going to be much warmer than the past two days. Ladder #1 is right off of the chess pavilion just south of the North Avenue Beach boathouse. I typically bike down there and start my swim around a little after 7am. I’ll usually take the water temperature as well as a few photos for the website. So feel free to stop by!
diver dave, on May 14th, 2010 at 11:54 pm Said:

WELL WELL WELL I GOT STEVES BONES OUT OF BED AND WE SWIM PROMATORY POINT TODAY….THE SUN WAS PERFECT AND THE WATER WAS NEAR PERFECTLY FLAT… WE SWAM OFF THE BEACH TO THE NORTH POINT THEN SWAM SOUTH… MANY TIMES I NEEDED TO STOP STEVE FROM SWIMMING TO MICHIGAN,INDIANA, LAKE SUPERIOR AND THE SAINT LAWERANCE SEAWAY… HE WAS ENJOYING THE SWIM SO MUCH HE JUST WANTED TO STAY IN THE WATER AND KEEP SWIMMING. IT WAS ONE FINE DAY AT THE BEACH TODAY…….
srhernan, on May 15th, 2010 at 3:27 pm Said:

It sure was a pretty sweet swim! We’re definitely going to have to make more visits out to that site!
Amber, on May 27th, 2010 at 1:48 pm Said:

I heard there may be a sighting of Lake Monster #5 out there this weekend. It’s been a long time since #5 has been spotted, so grab your cameras!!!
Michelle, on June 3rd, 2010 at 6:44 pm Said:

Hi! I’m traveling to Chicago for business June 14-17th and would love to join people for an open-water swim. I’m training for Ironman, so I don’t want to miss a chance to get out there in the water.

Does anyone swim early weekday mornings? I would probably need to get in by 6:30 a.m.

Please let me know.
Thanks!
srhernan, on June 3rd, 2010 at 6:58 pm Said:

Hi Michelle. There are a few of us that are out there early during the weekdays but it’s more of a spontaneous outing. Feel free to post a notice on the OWC Facebook page about this:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Open-Water-Chicago/54050745921

I’m trying to get more people to connect during the week for swims, and I’ve found that a lot of people are doing that on the FB site.
Michelle, on June 3rd, 2010 at 8:10 pm Said:

That’s great! I’ll try the Facebook post.

Thanks for the response, srhernan!
Matt, on June 8th, 2010 at 4:18 pm Said:

I’d like to join you, if possible, this Sunday (6/13). Do I look for you at L1 at sunrise? Two more questions: how far do you swim typically, and until what time is the parking free in the lot just north of L1?

Looking forward to it!
srhernan, on June 8th, 2010 at 6:21 pm Said:

I plan to be there at sunrise, which is pretty darn early this time of year (5:20am). However, I’m listing the official start time as 6:00am. I usually do an out-and-back mile, but there’s no set swim plan – you pretty much do whatever you’re most comfortable doing. Also, I don’t think there is anymore free parking at NAB. They now have the “pay to park” machines there, and I believe it’s a 24-hour enforcement.
srhernan, on June 8th, 2010 at 6:23 pm Said:

Hey there! Playing catch up on my comment replies. Good to see you out once again – we’ll be there this weekend!
greg, on June 9th, 2010 at 10:01 pm Said:

hi steve, i never swam in open water before but have my first open water swim tri on the 27th. it looks like thunderstorms this saturday morning. i’m assuming its unsafe to swim in those conditions? also, i’m in the burbs and haven’t been able to find anywhere in the burbs to open water swim. do you know of any? if not, i’ll have to find some time to get down there when weather permits to get in. thanks.
srhernan, on June 9th, 2010 at 11:58 pm Said:

Hi Greg. We usually luck out in the early mornings as the storms tend to arrive after 8:00am. If it’s raining that early, we’ll still swim. However, it’s a no go if there’s lightning. The only other place I’ve done any open water swimming in the Chicago area is up in Lake in the Hills at Indian Trail Beach. If you’re anywhere near there, be sure to check it out!
greg, on June 10th, 2010 at 7:51 pm Said:

thanks for the response steve. i knew about lith, but that’s more of a hike for me than downtown. hopefully i’ll get down there before my race.
Kevin, on June 24th, 2010 at 8:53 pm Said:

Hi, I am new to open water swimming in Chicago and have a question. From L1, how far is a mile swim? I am going to be heading to the lake tomorrow to prepare for an Ironman I am doing in July and any help would be greatly appreciated.
srhernan, on June 25th, 2010 at 1:03 am Said:

Hi Kevin! If you start out at L1 and go to the middle of Oak Street Beach and back, that’s about 1 mile total. If you go all the way to Ohio Street Beach and back, that’s 3 miles.
Ginger, on July 2nd, 2010 at 1:47 am Said:

Hi Steve,
I’m coming to Chgo. for a visit for a couple of weeks on Wednesday. Chgo. is originally my home–anyway, would love to swim with some folks when I get there. Does anyone gather other days of the week and later in the day? I appreciate the input. Thanks.
srhernan, on July 2nd, 2010 at 7:01 pm Said:

Hi Ginger! A lot of people get together outside of our scheduled meetups. I tell people to post a note on our Facebook fan page since there’s usually a few people (me included!) who might be up for a swim at just about any time. Here’s this site:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Open-Water-Chicago/54050745921

Hope to see you when you’re in town!
John W., on July 13th, 2010 at 8:29 pm Said:

Ok, I’m game to join you for your next outing. A few questions before I take the “plunge”. How are you securing your land items while swimming? (towel, shoes, etc) How far are you guys swimming?

I hope to see you guys this weekend – weather permitting.
srhernan, on July 14th, 2010 at 12:03 am Said:

John, most of us swim out and back to Oak Street Beach (approx. 1 mile), but some people swim shorter or even longer distances. As far as our stuff goes, we only take out there what we need and lock up our bikes and bags in one big pile.

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