The RX-8

as they really look
forward to that day when
they reach 19 and can
take part themselves.”
As Jenny points out, The
Heights is a perfect
location for the
competition event. With
its cafe right beside the
pool, spectators and
competitors can sit
together and have a
coffee, and still watch and
take part in the
competition. “It’s such a
friendly atmosphere” says
Jenny, “I have made so
many friends over the
years”.
Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net
Back Row: Barnabas Timental, Michael Alchin, Paul Baldwin,
Front Row: Jane Asher, Katrina Eldridge, Cecil Benfold
Among the crowd was Paul Baldwin, manager of the IW swim team,
which represents the Isle of Wight in the Island Games. He says
there’s a very strong competitive spirit in the sport – and he should
know. “Swimmers who qualify for the IW team have a very hard
training regime - not only swimming in their local club, but also
doing two hours training every day for the Island Games. The sport
is very competitive – it has to be when you consider that the time
difference between 1st and 6th place can be as little as 1.5 seconds.
Another point to consider is that swimmers have to fund the trip
themselves as there is no sponsorship available. So if Bermuda win
the bid for 2011, it will be a costly exercise for our local teams to get
there!”
HOBBIES - SPORT - LEISURE
Meanwhile, Jenny is preparing once again to do her epic swim across
the Solent. The swim is carried out solo with only a support craft.
“Obviously the swim is done at low tide, not only for the distance
but to also take into account the strong currents that run through
the Solent,” she said.
“The route takes me from Appley, then I bear left towards Gillkicker
and then bear right. If I didn’t do this, I’d end up in Eastbourne! The
water temperature in the Solent is around 18 degrees at the
beginning of September, which isn’t too bad.”
If you would like to get involved in the Masters, call Jenny Ball on
01983 525457.
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