We recognise that open water swimming can be daunting. The lake can be cold and deep, and sometimes it’s a big step up from swimming in the pool.
We’re running a four week course for beginners to Learn the Lake.
If you’re looking to get into open water swimming, if you’ve entered Challenge Wānaka, the Ruby race, or the Legend – we are here to help you on your swimming journey.
Important information
When: 9am Saturday mornings from 23rd November to 14th December 2024 (we have our Open Day on SUNDAY 17th November, because Queenstown Marathon is on Saturday 16th)
Where: Club Swim Lane, Frankton (Queenstown Marina, between the Scouts and Coastguard buildings)
Prerequisites: You have to be able to swim in the pool. Breaststroke is fine.
What you’ll need: Check out our Swim page. This will give you a list of key items to bring with you.
Do I need a wetsuit?: This is optional, but many members choose to swim in one due to the lake’s fresh temperatures. We do have a few available to borrow; come and talk to us about wetsuits on our Open Day.
What we’ll provide: Swim teachers and experienced swimmers in the water, with Stand Up Paddleboard support
What you’ll learn: We’ll start slowly, with an introduction to open water safety, wetsuits, tow floats, breathing, cold water, getting warm again. We won’t swim far initially, we’ve a marker buoy at 50m, and one at 125m. Later we’ll cover sighting, open water stroke technique and gradually increase our time in the water.
What about getting changed? – We are running this course from the Scout Hut, where there are toilets and a shower
How do I sign up for Learn the Lake? – You need to be a member of SLSC to do this course. Sign up for membership here. To help us confirm the numbers, sign up for the Facebook Learn the Lake event
What’s the cost? – Its free for SLSC members.
Any questions? – Send us a message or email – check out our Contact page7
