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 4th November to 2nd December (except 18th November, which is Queenstown Marathon)
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 from 9am to 11am on the 28th October.
What we’ll provide: Swim trainers 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 here.
What’s the cost? – Its free for SLSC members.
Any questions? – Send us a message or email – check out our Contact page
