If you are reading this, you have probably already heard open water swimming’s siren call. For me, it started at an early age while growing up in Hawaii: swimming at the beach and surfing and body surfing with friends after school. As I progressed from surf grom to swim club kid, the ever changing conditions of open water proved an irresistible respite from the constant metronome of the pool. Open water swimming meant freedom: freedom to pit oneself against the elements, freedom to work with the elements. Currents served as salvation or misfortune, an adventure and raw challenge that no pool workout could ever replicate. With no clocks on deck to base performance, open water demanded a heightened sense of awareness. Effort and a keen sense of adaptability reigned paramount. That, of course, and a little bit of strategy, technique and luck too. Open water swimming resonated with the adventurous athlete within me.
None understands the unique allure of open water swimming better than Steven Munatones. Through my travels as a open water competitor, I have crossed paths with Steven time and time again–from swimming the Waikiki Roughwater Swim as a child, to competing at the World Championships—and Steven has shown to have more passion for the sport than anyone else I have ever met. His unparalleled experiences and breadth of open water knowledge as a swimmer, coach, race organizer, Olympic commentator and writer undoubtedly makes him the go-to source for all things open water. He is open water swimming’s best ambassador.
This book covers all aspects of open water swimming from finishing the swim leg of a triathlon to solo channel swims. It includes training and racing tips that will help beginner swimmer and world class open water swimmers. There is a wealth of knowledge put into this book, and it is the best source for anyone braving the open water. I only wish I had access to it when I was starting my career.
The information in this book comes from an individual who lives and breathes the sport. Steven has always selflessly shared his passion and knowledge with others, but he is also always inquisitive to learn more. Without a doubt, this book is just one more step in Steven’s desire to promote the sport and educate others on why open water is so compelling.
As he often says, “Expect the Unexpected” and enjoy swimming without lines.
Copyright © 2010 by Open Water Source