Adam and Susie Become Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmers
On 22nd August, Adam and Susie took on the challenge of the Jurassic Coast Marathon Swim, covering the demanding 12km route from the Lyme Regis CSO to the shores just west of Eype Beach.
Adam and Susie receive their Marathon Swimmers commemorative hat
Unlike many previous successful crossings, their swim took place on a much smaller neap tide. While calmer tidal conditions can appear favourable, the reduced tidal flow meant they benefited from far less of the westward push that swimmers often rely on along this section of coast. As a result, every kilometre required sustained effort and determination, making their achievement all the more impressive.
From the outset, both swimmers settled into the challenge presented by one of the UK's most spectacular and unforgiving coastlines. Beneath the towering cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, they maintained a strong pace, working steadily westwards despite the lack of assistance from the tide.
Swimming strong with Lyme Regis behind them
While Adam would go on to face significant physical challenges during the swim, Susie looked strong and composed throughout. Although she felt a little cold in the early stages, she quickly settled into her rhythm and never allowed it to affect her performance. Maintaining a consistent stroke and positive attitude from start to finish, she provided a model of steady endurance and determination throughout the crossing.
For Adam, the swim became an especially demanding test of resilience. Throughout the crossing he battled frequent bouts of sickness, spending much of the swim feeling unwell. Lesser determination may have seen many swimmers abandon their attempt, but Adam never once considered quitting. Stroke after stroke, he continued to push forward, focusing entirely on reaching the finish.
Finishing the first feed at 1 hour, after which Adam was sick regularly
A huge part of that success was down to the support of Izzy, whose experience, encouragement and calm guidance helped Adam through the toughest periods of the swim. When conditions became difficult and morale could easily have faltered, Izzy's support kept him moving forward and played no small part in ensuring both swimmers completed their journey successfully. Her encouragement and support were instrumental in helping Adam work through the difficult moments and ultimately guiding both swimmers safely to their landing point on the beach just west of Eype.
As the finish drew nearer and the dramatic cliffs of West Dorset gave way to their destination, Adam and Susie continued to work together, overcoming fatigue and the cumulative effects of more than four hours in open water. After 4 hours and 8 minutes, they finally reached the beach just west of Eype, completing the route and earning their place as Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmers.
Their swim was a superb demonstration of endurance, teamwork and perseverance. On a day when the neap tide offered little assistance, Susie remained strong throughout after overcoming an initially chilly start, while Adam showed remarkable determination in battling illness for much of the journey. Together, supported by Izzy throughout the crossing, they turned a difficult day into a memorable success.
Congratulations to Adam and Susie, who are now Jurassic Coast Marathon Swimmers. Completing the 12km route from Lyme Regis to Eype in 4 hours and 8 minutes was an outstanding achievement and a testament to their grit, resilience and commitment to seeing the challenge through to the very end.