Chopper Swim

This is the fourth time that this event is being held. It has grown in size each year. Over 40 teams have entered in 2018. Some of the swimmers traveled up from Christchurch, others from Australia.  The organisers vetted the credentials of the swimmers all of whom had to demonstrate their ability to participate in a swim of this nature.

The swims in 2016 took place in about 15 knots of wind. The one in 2017 took place in slightly stronger winds. I do not expect the swim to go ahead in winds of over 20 knots. I believe that the one in 2018 had a following wind of about 10 knots.  Due to the larger number of swimmers and support crew alternative dates are not provided for in case of bad weather.  

Each swimmer was accompanied by a kayaker, carrying basic supplies of high energy food (gel), considerable amount of water and/or isotonic drinks, and equipment (e.g. spare goggles, caps, anti-rash, sunblock) provided by the swimmer. The kayakers’ role was to ensure visibility of the swimmer, assist navigation and provide immediate emergency assistance.

A fleet of small motorised vessels accompanied the swimmers. Each relay team provided a motorboat to transport other team members and basic supplies for swimmers and kayaker(s). The boats were captained by a person not directly involved as swimmer or kayaker. This was to ensure full focus throughout the event. Solo swimmers had motor boat support shared between 3 – 5 swimmers.  Each boat was equipped with basic first aid equipment and a VHF radio. The number and size of motorboats was sufficient to onboard all swimmers, kayakers, and most kayaks.

The on-water support crews was led by a Head Skipper. The Head Skipper oversaw the event on the water from his vessel. His boat (skippered by Brad Butterworth) was fully equipped and maintained regular contact with each kayaker and other motorboats in the fleet via VHF radio. He had the authority to delay or abandon the event, or initiate heightened safety measures such as grouping of swimmer, retrieval of kayakers or evacuation of individuals at heightened risk. All participants will need to undertake to follow his instructions. The Head Skipper also maintained radio contact to Coast Guard (they were very impressed by the quality of the organisation) and other vessels in the area.

Briefings - the organiser will hold a formal briefing in February/March 2019.

Getting to the start at Matiatia  - in 2016, 2017 and 2018 the swimmers and kayakers took a Fullers Ferry from Auckland to Matiatia on the morning of the race. The kayakers did not have to pay to go on the ferry. I understand that the organisers are making similar arrangements again.

During the swim itself - during the swim you should be within 10 metres of your swimmer at all times.  Ensure that you monitor how they are swimming and talk to them at feeding stops. Your swimmer will be relying on you for navigation.  Ensure that you know the route.  The leading swimmers support boats will assist with their navigation – for those further back in the field, keep an eye on where the other swimmers are in front of you.  Your allocated skipper will be able to assist with navigation so please keep in contact with them.  We will be using VHF channel 77 during the swim.  Agree where you should locate yourself in relation to your swimmer.  Most likely swimmers will be looking for you at a 45 degree angle in front of them. That way they don’t have to lift their head for navigation but rather just spot you when breathing normally. Ensure you have also discussed with your swimmer in advance a plan for "pit stops" – 7 hours in a kayak is a long time for your bladder.  Talk to your swimmer!

If you are supporting a solo swimmer, you are your swimmer’s feeder. It is advised that you agree with your swimmer a set interval when to stop the swimmer to feed and water them. Ensure you have a watch with you to keep track of time!

In the event of an emergency, contact your allocated skipper immediately.  They will radio for assistance and help get the swimmer aboard.  There will be a paramedic available on a support boat – your job is to ensure that, where possible, any issues are spotted early.  Your primary role is to support your swimmer – keep this in mind and be vigilant.

The swim finishes in Judges Bay.

Additional information for YYers -  Garth has a bach on Waiheke so we are planning a paddle over on Saturday and stay with Garth, then do the swim escort back on the Monday.  The swim is on a Monday so that there are fewer launches to be hazards to the swimmers.  More information to come regarding this.  If you don't want to be a swim escort, you can still come on the Waiheke trip.

See more information on the trip itself, under Waiheke Weekend.

To register for the swim escort online, please click here...