First time ocean swimmer

First time ocean racer; infact, this was the first competitive sporting thing I had done in 25 years!

First time ocean racer; infact, this was the first competitive sporting thing I had done in 25 years! Got back into the pool 3 months ago after an extended period of no exercise whatsoever. v1st thing I did was register for the Harbour Crossing. Fear of an early death on the Waitemata was my original motivator (I'm ONLY 47), but as i progressed, the time (sub 1hour) kept me keen. My first experiences of ocean swimming (and first try in a wetsuit) the week of the race had me panicky (I know - YES, IT IS DIFFERENT!)but I was like a kid on Christmas Eve by Saturday. Loved the race - wonderful atmosphere at the start, great psychological challenge and looking forward to the next swim in a few weeks now. My 90 year old Dad (still swimming daily!) had always wanted to do this event. Having him at the finish line was special for both of us - no crying of course, but it was understood (being Kiwi blokes, 'n' all)!