On 6 August, we took a welcome break from the heatwave to compete at the Brockwell Lido Summer Relays. We took a team of 11 across the 120- and 120+ age groups, with Hannah and Jen using statistical analysis in the relay selection to get us into first place after years of finishing second.
Brockwell Relays are a tried and tested format: a freestyle relay, medley relay and breaststroke relay, followed by a squadron and, if you have any energy (or body heat) left, a final relay mixed with swimmers from all the other teams.
We had a great blend of Brockwell veterans and newer members, which is a big pull for events like this. We also had a spread of teammates from all our weekly training sessions and locations, and a catch-up in the Prince Regent Pub once the racing finished.
Special thanks, in addition to Hannah and Jen, also go to:
– our amazing timekeeper Daisy
– Team Alex (his housemates) for cheering us on again
– Robyn for bringing much-needed drinks
There was some amazing other stuff going on in the other teams too. I’d never seen supported swimming with a noodle for partially sighted swimmers before, which was pretty humbling. There’s a real collegial spirit across all teams at the event, helped of course by the mixed race at the end.
If this is something you’d like to do we’d love you to join the event next year. There are two Brockwell Relay galas in 2027, one in May and one in August. There are also the Tooting Midsummer Relays in their 100 yard lido.
Spencer offers many opportunities for fun events throughout the year, away from mainstream masters competitions.
The Spencer Team
– Alex, Alicia, Anna, Christine, Hannah, James, Jen, Josh, Mark, Robyn, Ross
