The Wonders of Open Water Swimming
by Salford resident Sarah Thompson-Cook
“I made Salford my home after graduating from university the first time. I started open water swimming in 2014 and in the last few years I’ve started swimming all year round, including the winter. I love the feel of water on my skin, and the water quality in Dock 8 and 9 is amazing.
When it’s warm enough to put my face in without brain freeze, it’s like meditation. I can focus on my breathing and the rhythm of my stroke without any distractions. It’s lovely to see the seasons change and to swim alongside the mallards with their ducklings. I also enjoy the social aspect, especially in the winter while warming up over a hot cuppa. I’m autistic and social situations can be challenging but it makes it easier when these are activity based. It also helps that the other swimmers are lovely and accepting of everyone.
Swimming also helps me with anxiety and winter blues. It’s very much part of my routine all year round now.
I swim at Salford Watersports Centre during the organised sessions, where I know quite a few swimmers. The staff at the Watersports Centre are fabulous and the sessions are lifeguarded, so I always feel very safe swimming in Dock 8.
I’ve seen Salford Quays develop massively since making Salford my home.
When I first moved here, parts of it (including where MediaCity is now) were wasteland. When I watched the Commonwealth Games triathlon down there in 2002, large parts were still just grass and old industrial land.
Now it’s teeming with ducks, geese, swans, coots and occasionally herons and cormorants. It’s a lovely place for walking too. If I’m not in the water then I love being by the water. I enjoy seeing the changing exhibitions at the Lowry and Imperial War Museum North. Gnome Island is also worth a look, and it’s still a complete mystery who is responsible for it.”
Sarah Thompson-Cook
