Carla Lloyd's Blog

Posted: 01/02/10
Introduction

Via the medium of Google Talk, Carla lets us know why she's made the scary decision to conquer her own personal Mount Everest (aka The Great London Swim).

Jon: Hi Carla, what made you want to do an open water swim?
 
Carla: I have had a lot of changes in my life recently and wanted to give myself a challenge to get back on track. It needed to be a big challenge and although I am not afraid of water I can only swim one length and like to touch the bottom of the pool and see where I am going. Open water represents a challenge on all levels, distance, not being able to see or touch the bottom.

Jon: What made you choose the Great London Swim as your first open water challenge?
 
Carla: When I was searching online for a challenge the search results came up with the Great London Swim on the Child Bereavement Charity's website. It was a coincidence that they are very well known to me as they are next to my daughter's school. So it was actually the idea of helping this particular charity which made me decide on the Great Swim.
 
Jon: Sounds like a great cause, is there a way for people to sponsor you?

Carla: Yes, I have set up a page on Just Giving:
https://www.justgiving.com/FunSwimShop-Carla

Jon: When does the swim take place and do you mind giving away some of your training secrets leading up to the big day?
 
Carla: The swim takes place on 3rd July this year. I would love to share details of any training aids which help me on my way. I really hope that all people of my generation who were not taught to swim properly will take inspiration and give swimming a try.
 
Jon: What part of the swim or preparation are you looking forward to the least?

Carla: Actually wearing a swim cap - it's not a good look for me!

Jon: Looking forward to the first glimpse of you wearing one on our Facebook page then...

Carla: Hmmmm maybe combined with the open water goggles which cover a lot more of your face than regular goggles it won't be too bad.

Jon: (nice plug), so can we follow the lead up to the swim on your blog?

Carla: Yes, I will do a regular monthly update and in between will post on any equipment I have tried using or any milestones I have achieved.

Jon: Great, thanks - best of luck!
 
Carla: I will need it!