Scene at the start. Savai'i looms in the distance.
Swim SupportAll Swimmers Solo and Teams must have the following as part of your swim support for the big swim:
Swim DirectorBoat captains, they know these waters, but are not swim smart. It is necessary for a Swim director to be appointed to your Swim to ensure the race goes according to your schedule and swim plan.
Ideally, a swim director is someone you know. The swim captain is stationed on the boat and can liaise with race HQ and support as well as directing the swim for you. We have had swim captains acting as kayaker / paddler as well. This is also perfectly ok and better suited to have someone you know well. The Swim Director manages the swim, and directs the journey of the boat and kayak. That person looks after your food supply and makes sure you are given the right food at the right time. SD provides the necessary equipment for the swim, or ensure these are provided. The other very important role of the Swim captain is to ensure the boat is fitted with a GPS that is programmed to the Swim route. The GPS is provided by the Swim captain. The importance of this role cannot be overstated. Swim Director's Duties
Support BoatThis is the type of boat that is used for the Swim. It comes with a captain, usually the owner and one crewman. It also comes with fuel for the journey.
These boats are used for offshore fishing in Samoa and are sturdy and strong. The boat can carry up to 20 people, but for the safety of the event we will limit that number to six people plus the crew. Boat captains, they know these waters, but are not swim smart. It is necessary for a Swim captain to be appointed to your Swim, to ensure the race goes according to your schedule and swim plan. Boat Captain's duties
KayakEvery swimmer is to have a kayaker to stay beside the swimmer at all times. Whilst you are provided with a kayak - the swimmer / Team is to organise your own paddler. There are local kayakers available but highly recommended you bring your own. If you are relying on a local paddler you will need to spend time on the water with that person to get them to know your needs during the swim.
Kayaker's duties
|
The Race will have Electronic Live Tracking for family and friends unable to attend the Race.
Check out the Live Tracker link for the inaugural event.
Check out the Live Tracker link for the inaugural event.
Boat Park - End of the Swim and everyone is safely ashore