Dougie Fitzsimmons is a new open water swimmer from Elderslie, Scotland.

SWIMMING EXPERIENCES:
I was only a recreational holiday swimmer, then completed a weekends ‘Total Immersion’ swimming course. After meeting Robert I commenced outdoor swimming at Bardowie Loch with Vigour Events. Have been swimming with them for one season, including winter swims. Am now comfortable up to about 2500m outdoor swimming.

SWIMMING BACKGROUND: About 12 months ago I was could only manage a maximum of about 10 lengths indoors.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO GIVE OPEN WATER A SWIMMING A TRY:
I made a New Year’s resolution to swim outdoors after hearing the experiences of a triathlete friend.

HOW OFTEN ARE YOU SWIMMING: Twice per week, generally a 1 mile time trial and a 1600m drill training session. Once the open water starts again I expect 2 sessions outdoors per week.

WHERE IS YOUR PREFERRED SWIMMING LOCATION (I.E SEA/INLAND WATERWAYS/RIVERS/LOCHS/LAKES):
Lochs is my only outdoor location so far but want to do more at other locations e.g. Loch Lomond.

DO YOU PLAN ON TAKING PART IN ANY OPEN WATER EVENTS THIS YEAR:

Yes

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