A couple weeks ago back on September 19th we had spectacular weather for the 12th Annual Upstate Splash on Lake Jocassee in Salem, SC!
As always we swam in delightful water temperature with at least half of the dozen years of this event providing plenty of wind for tough choppy sloshy waves on the way out and a bit more help from the wind/wave direction helping swimmers to feel somewhat calmer on the return!
The two pictures directly above and below were taken less than an hour apart showing the significant chop then calmer conditions later in morning.
With the water level lower than anybody’s ever seen in these 12 years the course bent a little to the left, and seemingly increasing its overall distance.
Jeff B., Jeff O., Andrew P., Trevor D., Misty V., Emma and Jim G. Below🐟
More than a few of us had course distances on our watches measuring 1.3 – 1.5 miles for a single loop – instead of the 1.2 miles as usual.
Over the years it’s been real short on one occasion and this year perhaps the longest course so far, and the other 10 years have seemed consistent with length, based on finish times.
The course setters use a combo of laser sighting and regular gps for getting course as close to the 1.2 miles loop they’re seeking.
A couple swimmers adjusted their race distances based on conditions and personal feel and self-awareness, and as a coach always thinking about safety, I applaud those decisions anytime they need to be made!
This event has taught over 5000 children, adults, and veterans how to swim in the last 12 years and every cent of the entry fee and sponsorships after true expenses goes to teaching more swimming lessons every year in South Carolina.
We thank the Greenville Splash Masters Club for initiating and continuing this exceptional event! Well done Leslie and Steve Scott!
Most pictures above from Lisa Kiebzak! Thank you!
