Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' or split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no idea if the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the Thames, but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need to get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if you are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no foot paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many of the swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) but as I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a couple of cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be along a busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire this year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in stages (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a good one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't think this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer along nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it has been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point although Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the manor and although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' rule in force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it at the end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one (about the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about depth all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
Hello to those that have replied (remember to hit 'reply-all' so that the whole list gets your response which saves people asking the same question).
Distance is tricky as it is more about 'time' in the water, it will be a head-up breast stroke (of which I am *really* slow) but I reckon that it would be about one hour to hour and half (two hours tops).
Now as I have said, we may swim for 20 metres and then find the water is 2 feet deep and have to walk along the river until we find deep water again - this was part of the charm of the windrush - so make sure you have decent footwear in case we have scrambling to do.
As to Dates - weekends are best it seems. I'd also prefer a morning (10am start) or late evening swim than middle of the day, but can be flexible on those travelling.
July 10/11 (any time) July 18 (any time) July 24/25 (any time) July 31/Aug1 (any time)
I have nothing booked on those weekends, but would rather sooner than later.
I will (if I remember) take another look this weekend in the evening to see the state of the water (in case the water has gone down) and let you know.
So of those interested can suggest one or two of these weekends to the group email, then I am sure we can easily narrow it down.
James
On 28/06/2010 18:56, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' or split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no idea if the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the Thames, but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need to get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if you are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no foot paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many of the swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) but as I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a couple of cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be along a busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire this year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in stages (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a good one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't think this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer along nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it has been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point although Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the manor and although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' rule in force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it at the end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one (about the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about depth all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
James Lowe wrote:
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this.
This sounds great! Unfortunately my schedule at the moment is manic (as many of you know, I'm running a big trip to Canada this coming month and seem to be spending much of my life at the moment sorting things out for that) but if you or others are going out for an evening dip to take a look do drop me a mail and if I'm around I'll come down from Oxford.
Alas can't do any weekends for at least the next month on more than very short notice.
Tim
I can only do Sunday the 11th at the moment, Bex
On Tue, Jun 29, 2010 at 2:49 PM, Tim Bond tim.bond@keble.oxon.org wrote:
James Lowe wrote:
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this.
This sounds great! Unfortunately my schedule at the moment is manic (as many of you know, I'm running a big trip to Canada this coming month and seem to be spending much of my life at the moment sorting things out for that) but if you or others are going out for an evening dip to take a look do drop me a mail and if I'm around I'll come down from Oxford.
Alas can't do any weekends for at least the next month on more than very short notice.
Tim
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
It sounds wonderful but, looking at the maps, I think that the distance is far too great for me.
-----Original Message----- From: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li [mailto:ossoxon-bounces@earth.li] On Behalf Of James Lowe Sent: 28 June 2010 18:56 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' or split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no idea if the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the Thames, but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need to get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if you are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no foot paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many of the swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) but as I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a couple of cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be along a busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire this year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in stages (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a good one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't think this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer along nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it has been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point although Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the manor and although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' rule in force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it at the end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one (about the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about depth all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
_______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' or split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no idea if the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the Thames, but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need to get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if you are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no foot paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many of the swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) but as I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you would be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a couple of cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be along a busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire this year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in stages (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a good one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't think this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer along nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it has been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point although Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the manor and although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' rule in force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it at the end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one (about the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about depth all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
_________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
Hello!
I'm new to the OSS, but certainly not swimming and I'm very comfortable on the Thames - and tributaries. I've dusted off my neoprene boots in readiness and can definitely make the 10th if that's looking good for everyone.
It will be great to meet you all...
Ed Chipperfield
On 29 Jun 2010, at 21:50, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/ hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at
Dorchester
looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in
one' or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you
need to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or
if you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are
no foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am
not
sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be
a good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and
hammer along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and
criss
cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hi James,
Unable to do the 18th but the 10th would be good for me.
Cheers, Jaime
From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 +0100 Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
_________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/197222280/direct/01/ We want to hear all your funny, exciting and crazy Hotmail stories. Tell us now
I long to join you all but still think that I should be cautious this time. I managed three miles from Dorchester a few weeks ago but suffered later. Two is probably a more realistic limit for me. I take forty minutes for a mile so am not very fast.
Pam (from Winchester) -----Original Message----- From: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li [mailto:ossoxon-bounces@earth.li] On Behalf Of James Lowe Sent: 29 June 2010 21:50 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
_______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
_______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hi James
I'm very keen - you know I like such adventures! Hopefully my leg will be sufficiently healed by 10th July to join you sometime that weekend if you want. B
Bob Bradley +44 (0) 1993 880 651 +44 (0) 7968 267 658
On 30 June 2010 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility. _______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hello,
OK it seems that the 10th is going to be the date - sorry for those that said they cannot make it then, but these seems the most popular date. If it proves fun we can do it again the end of the month for those that couldn't make it or maybe another part of the Thame - from Drayton St Leonard to the Thames proper at Dorchester?
I'll take another look (as I said) this weekend, it looks like the swim will be in three, one kilometre sections - that's my guess from the map. We won't be swimming hard but hopefully letting the current take us.
While there are three spots to get out (one after each section) I think the first 'out' at the Manor House will probably be awkward (see my previous email with the locations), so I expect that we either carry on down to the Pub on the Bridge and/or down on to Drayton St Leonard. So those that want to can get out there and the rest carry on.
I'll let you all know once I go back and check on the water levels. I may even have a quick dip at the start to see what it is like.
Thanks
James
On 30/06/2010 19:23, Bob Bradley wrote:
Hi James
I'm very keen - you know I like such adventures! Hopefully my leg will be sufficiently healed by 10th July to join you sometime that weekend if you want. B
Bob Bradley +44 (0) 1993 880 651 +44 (0) 7968 267 658
On 30 June 2010 00:46, <davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk mailto:davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk> wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone -----Original Message----- From: James Lowe <james.lowe@datacore.com <mailto:james.lowe@datacore.com>> Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li <mailto:ossoxon-bounces@earth.li> Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: <ossoxon@earth.li <mailto:ossoxon@earth.li>> Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame Hello, Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates. I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me). Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish. Probably start here I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring? Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them. James On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote: > Hi there, > > Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The > exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it > numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide > transport for 3 others if needed. > > I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were > you thinking of any dates in particular? > > Cheers, > Jaime > > > Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 > > From: james.lowe@datacore.com <mailto:james.lowe@datacore.com> > > To: ossoxon@earth.li <mailto:ossoxon@earth.li> > > Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame > > > > Hello, > > > > I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great > > Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester > > looking for a new and interesting swim. > > > > I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' > or > > split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no > idea if > > the river in the proposed part is > > > > i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down > > ii. What the hazards are (if any) > > > > There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the > Thames, > > but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side. > > > > So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new > > comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need > to > > get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if > you > > are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no > foot > > paths etc. > > > > It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many > of the > > swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) > but as > > I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not > > sure how long it will take. > > > > Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you > would > > be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a > couple of > > cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be > along a > > busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long. > > > > One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak. > > > > I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire > this > > year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in > stages > > (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a > good > > one too. > > > > I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't > think > > this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer > along > > nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it > has > > been swam once and then we will all have a better idea). > > > > Here is are the proposed spots: > > > > Here is a good start point > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9 > > > > You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the > > bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote. > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point > although > > Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the > manor and > > although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' > rule in > > force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it > at the > > end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away. > > > > So we could swim on then to here: > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9 > > > > A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point. > > > > A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC > > > > then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here: > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD > > > > You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk. > > > > The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one > (about > > the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about > depth > > all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it > all' swim. > > > > There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss > > cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally. > > > > Any one up for this? > > > > James (aka Adam Smith) > > > > _______________________________________________ > > OSS Oxon mailing list > > OSSOxon@earth.li <mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li> > > http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon > > > > Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with > other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest > that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go > swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk > and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own > responsibility. > > Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now. _______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li <mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li> http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility. _______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li <mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li> http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Great swim yesterday, thanks for organising it James!
A brilliant way to spend a Saturday morning - though I needed to nap most of the afternoon to get over the shock of a four-hour session!
On 1 Jul 2010, at 11:14, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
OK it seems that the 10th is going to be the date - sorry for those that said they cannot make it then, but these seems the most popular date. If it proves fun we can do it again the end of the month for those that couldn't make it or maybe another part of the Thame - from Drayton St Leonard to the Thames proper at Dorchester?
I'll take another look (as I said) this weekend, it looks like the swim will be in three, one kilometre sections - that's my guess from the map. We won't be swimming hard but hopefully letting the current take us.
While there are three spots to get out (one after each section) I think the first 'out' at the Manor House will probably be awkward (see my previous email with the locations), so I expect that we either carry on down to the Pub on the Bridge and/or down on to Drayton St Leonard. So those that want to can get out there and the rest carry on.
I'll let you all know once I go back and check on the water levels. I may even have a quick dip at the start to see what it is like.
Thanks
James
On 30/06/2010 19:23, Bob Bradley wrote:
Hi James
I'm very keen - you know I like such adventures! Hopefully my leg will be sufficiently healed by 10th July to join you sometime that weekend if you want. B
Bob Bradley +44 (0) 1993 880 651 +44 (0) 7968 267 658
On 30 June 2010 00:46, <davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk mailto:davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk> wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe <james.lowe@datacore.com mailto:james.lowe@datacore.com> Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li mailto:ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: <ossoxon@earth.li mailto:ossoxon@earth.li> Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
> Hi there, > > Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming inOxfordshire. The > exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it > numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide > transport for 3 others if needed. > > I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were > you thinking of any dates in particular? > > Cheers, > Jaime > > > Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 > > From: james.lowe@datacore.com mailto:james.lowe@datacore.com > > To: ossoxon@earth.li mailto:ossoxon@earth.li > > Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame > > > > Hello, > > > > I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great > > Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester > > looking for a new and interesting swim. > > > > I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one' > or > > split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no > idea if > > the river in the proposed part is > > > > i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down > > ii. What the hazards are (if any) > > > > There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the > Thames, > > but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side. > > > > So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new > > comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need > to > > get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if > you > > are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no > foot > > paths etc. > > > > It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many > of the > > swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example) > but as > > I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not > > sure how long it will take. > > > > Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you > would > > be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a > couple of > > cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be > along a > > busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long. > > > > One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak. > > > > I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire > this > > year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in > stages > > (which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a > good > > one too. > > > > I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't > think > > this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer > along > > nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it > has > > been swam once and then we will all have a better idea). > > > > Here is are the proposed spots: > > > > Here is a good start point > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9 > > > > You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the > > bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote. > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point > although > > Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the > manor and > > although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking' > rule in > > force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it > at the > > end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away. > > > > So we could swim on then to here: > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9 > > > > A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point. > > > > A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC > > > > then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here: > > > > http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD > > > > You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk. > > > > The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one > (about > > the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about > depth > > all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it > all' swim. > > > > There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss > > cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally. > > > > Any one up for this? > > > > James (aka Adam Smith) > > > > _______________________________________________ > > OSS Oxon mailing list > > OSSOxon@earth.li mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li > > http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon > > > > Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with > other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest > that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go > swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk > and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own > responsibility. > > Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility. _______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li mailto:OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get there too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are about a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of the route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head- down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney- sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water and walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your body against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area in England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your own risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get there too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are about a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of the route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head-down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water and walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your body against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area in England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your own risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hi James,
Appetite well and truly whetted. Happy to start at 10 or 11. Will meet you at the pub and am happy to drive anyone thinking of coming from Oxford.
Cheers,
Jaime
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame - Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get there too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are about a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of the route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head-down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water and walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your body against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area in England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your own risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
_________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/
Hi James Me and Mike are coming along from Abingdon, so see you there Thanks Laura
________________________________ From: Jaime Tinker jaimetinker@hotmail.co.uk To: james.lowe@datacore.com; ossoxon@earth.li Sent: Thu, 8 July, 2010 13:00:43 Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame - Sat 10th July
Hi James, Appetite well and truly whetted. Happy to start at 10 or 11. Will meet you at the pub and am happy to drive anyone thinking of coming from Oxford.
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame - Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get there too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are about a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of the route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head-down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water and walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your body against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area in England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your own risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
________________________________ Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
Getting my stuff ready now - just wanted to check, is it an 11am start?
Ed
Edward Chipperfield Editor, WideWorld +44 (0)7739 516264 www.wideworldmag.com Skype: edchipperfield
On 8 Jul 2010, at 13:00, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi James,
Appetite well and truly whetted. Happy to start at 10 or 11. Will meet you at the pub and am happy to drive anyone thinking of coming from Oxford.
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River
Thame - Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us
can drive
you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for
when you
get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may
get there
too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start
might be
more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at
10:00
gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points)
are about
a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its
banks
(according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I
didn't do
any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50
yards of the
route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be
in a
'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling
yourself
along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be
wrong, but I
don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim
in the
truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or
head-down
crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek'
about in
the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this
is
could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks
maybe
ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the
water and
walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to
get out
on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If
this is
the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a
lot, so
depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some
kind if
you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing
your body
against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side
of the
river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at,
quizzed,
maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for
minor
confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just
being
polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as
many
rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least
understand
what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey
area in
England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass,
people
can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on
their
land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this
makes
you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I
don't
expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at
your own
risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad
things
that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we
provide
no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are
doing so
based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim
nothing more.
If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain
is not
going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to
Didcot or
Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but
confident.
18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the
thames.
Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the
River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one
can
make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll
firm up
where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those
that are
interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no
ideas
about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy
this
river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss
until 'next
time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or
we'll be
able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire.
The
exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past
it
numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can
provide
transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July.
Were
you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River
Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between
Great
Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at
Dorchester
looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in
one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along
side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with
'new
comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you
need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold
or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there
are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than
many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for
example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just
am not
sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of
you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of
Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush
already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might
be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I
don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and
hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not
until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at
the
bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could
leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by
here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure
about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from
it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it
and criss
cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way
suggest
that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own
risk
and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other
swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go
swimming. If
you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on
your own
initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other
swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that
outdoor
swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now._______________________________________________ OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Hi James
I've been thinking about coming along, but I have a few things to do in the morning and I'm not sure I'm going to make it. Hopefully see you at the pub at 11am for a bit of car shuffling, if I'm not there DON'T wait for me cos I may have got stuck somewhere. Hope it goes well, and maybe see you there.
Claire
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame - Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get there too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are about a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of the route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head-down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water and walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your body against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area in England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your own risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
_________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/ We want to hear all your funny, exciting and crazy Hotmail stories. Tell us now
Hi James
I'm pretty definitely in, and hopefully Wendy will be driving / walking too but don't wait for us if we're not there - it just means some crisis has come up with the family!
Would prefer 10 but ahppy with 11 too.
Bob
Bob Bradley +44 (0) 1993 880 651 +44 (0) 7968 267 658
On 8 July 2010 17:57, Claire Tuckett clairetuckett@hotmail.com wrote:
Hi James
I've been thinking about coming along, but I have a few things to do in the morning and I'm not sure I'm going to make it. Hopefully see you at the pub at 11am for a bit of car shuffling, if I'm not there DON'T wait for me cos I may have got stuck somewhere. Hope it goes well, and maybe see you there.
Claire
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100
From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame -
Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us can drive you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for when you get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may get
there
too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start might be more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at 10:00 gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points) are
about
a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its banks (according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I didn't do any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50 yards of
the
route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be in a 'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling yourself along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be wrong, but I don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim in the truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or head-down crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek' about in the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this is could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks maybe ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the water
and
walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to get out on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If this is the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a lot, so depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some kind if you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing your
body
against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side of the river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at, quizzed, maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for minor confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just being polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as many rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least understand what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey area
in
England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass, people can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on their land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this makes you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I don't expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at your
own
risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad things that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we provide no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are doing so based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim nothing more. If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain is not going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to Didcot or Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but confident. 18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the thames. Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one can make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll firm up where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those that are interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no ideas about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy this river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss until 'next time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or we'll be able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire. The exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past it numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can provide transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July. Were you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between Great Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at Dorchester looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with 'new comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just am not sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at the bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by here: http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it and criss cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that
outdoor
swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other
swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a new e-mail account with Hotmail - Free. Sign-up now.http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/197222280/direct/01/
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
I'm still in! will be coming from St Clements if anyone needs a lift?
Sent from my iPhone
On 8 Jul 2010, at 22:13, Bob Bradley rdb@hardybee.com wrote:
Hi James
I'm pretty definitely in, and hopefully Wendy will be driving / walking too but don't wait for us if we're not there - it just means some crisis has come up with the family!
Would prefer 10 but ahppy with 11 too.
Bob
Bob Bradley +44 (0) 1993 880 651 +44 (0) 7968 267 658
On 8 July 2010 17:57, Claire Tuckett clairetuckett@hotmail.com wrote: Hi James
I've been thinking about coming along, but I have a few things to do in the morning and I'm not sure I'm going to make it. Hopefully see you at the pub at 11am for a bit of car shuffling, if I'm not there DON'T wait for me cos I may have got stuck somewhere. Hope it goes well, and maybe see you there.
Claire
Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:24:02 +0100
From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Finalised 'exploratory' swim on the River
Thame - Sat 10th July
Hello,
Had no confirmations from anyone.
Did I manage to put you all off!?
James
On 04/07/2010 10:22, James Lowe wrote:
Hello,
I went for a second look yesterday.
I think we should aim for starting at Cuddesdon Mill:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
and finish near the pub in Chiselhampton
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
We can meet at the Pub get changed and then one or more of us
can drive
you to the start point, leaving cars in the Pub car park for
when you
get back.
The Pub starts serving at 12:00 so if we start at 10:00 we may
get there
too early if anyone wants a drink, so perhaps an 11:00 start
might be
more preferable to some?
I'll leave that open - I can do any time but I think earliest at
10:00
gives people a chance to get to the start that want to come.
I'll say it again, that this is more than likely not going to be a 'proper' swim, inasmuch as the start point (and finish points)
are about
a foot deep. Now there is an angling club that fish along its
banks
(according to the signs) but that is no guarantee of depth, I
didn't do
any swim yesterday and could only see the first and last 50
yards of the
route at each end.
Maybe it gets much deeper, but maybe not.
I am expecting that large parts of this 'swim' are going to be
in a
'couple of feet' of water (i.e. mainly floating or pulling
yourself
along the bottom) which may not appeal to some. I could be
wrong, but I
don't want to set any expectation. This is an 'exploratory' swim
in the
truest sense, so if the possibility of walking a lot in the water doesn't appeal or you are looking for a gentle breastroke (or
head-down
crawl) swim all the way, this is probably not for you.
If you are looking for some adventure and a chance to 'trek'
about in
the river in the middle of the Oxfordshire Countryside then this
is
could be the swim you want.
So bring footwear that has a reasonably tough sole - swim socks
maybe
ok, but they may get ripped if the river bed is particularly stoney-sharp - as I do expect to be dragging myself out of the
water and
walking along the river (there will be no real opportunities to
get out
on the bank as it is private land along most of the route). If
this is
the case you will be getting in and out of the water quite a
lot, so
depending on the weather you may want to bring a suit of some
kind if
you get cold easily - and again for protection against rubbing
your body
against a shallow riverbed.
Finally I also expect that those landowners who own either side
of the
river probably don't get much boat traffic (let alone rubber-clad individuals) in 'their' river so we may also get shouted at,
quizzed,
maybe just ignored or we may not meet a soul. So be prepared for
minor
confrontation (it has happened to us in the past - usually just
being
polite and explaining the 'adventure' or the 'trying to swim as
many
rivers in Oxfordshire as we can' has help people at least
understand
what we are doing there even if they are still uncomfortable.
We all know that the legalities of river swimming is a very grey
area in
England and while I am not intending to do any kind of trespass,
people
can be rather defensively aggressive if they think you are 'on
their
land' when you are just passing through on the river, so if this
makes
you uncomfortable, again, this might not be the swim for you. I
don't
expect trouble but you just never know.
Oh, if I haven't put you off already (or maybe I have whetted your appetite even more?) I need to just re-iterate that you swim at
your own
risk. I (or anyone else) will take no responsibility for any bad
things
that may happen to you. Swimming in rivers is hazardous and we
provide
no safety guarantees. If you do elect to come along you are
doing so
based on just that you happen to be joining me for a swim
nothing more.
If you are in any doubt, don't get in the river.
I will post a message here probably Friday just to confirm. If the weather is really (really) bad I may not go, but a little rain
is not
going to stop me. I can pick people up from (and drop back to
Didcot or
Culham stations if needed.
if you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
James
On 30 Jun 2010, at 00:46, davebowen47@tiscali.co.uk wrote:
Am keen to come along, never done anything like this but
confident.
18th is better for me. For future oxon events am able to provide a safety boat on the
thames.
Dave Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone
-----Original Message----- From: James Lowe james.lowe@datacore.com Sender: ossoxon-bounces@earth.li Date: Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:50:04 To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: Re: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the
River Thame
Hello,
Ok let's try to nail this down in terms of dates.
I'd like to do either 10th or the 18th July and then if no one
can
make it 24th. Sooner than later (11th is Big Jump day and 17th is another swim for me).
Morning start (say 10am) after another recon this weekend I'll
firm up
where we start and finish.
Probably start here
I know Carl doesn't like it ;) but can we reply-all so those
that are
interested can see what dates the others are preferring?
Remember this will be the first time for all of us so I have no
ideas
about in and out spots, how far/short/fast/deep/shallow/hazardy
this
river is, so if you are in any doubts give this one a miss
until 'next
time' as if it proves fun then no doubt we'll do it again or
we'll be
able to give hints and tips to those that want them.
James
On 29 Jun 2010, at 20:34, Jaime Tinker wrote:
Hi there,
Not new to outdoor swimming but am to swimming in Oxfordshire.
The
exploratory swim sounds right up my alley and I've driven past
it
numerous times and considered it. I'm central Oxford and can
provide
transport for 3 others if needed.
I have a fairly flexible few weekends except 17th/18th July.
Were
you thinking of any dates in particular?
Cheers, Jaime
Date: Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:56:16 +0100 From: james.lowe@datacore.com To: ossoxon@earth.li Subject: [OSS Oxon] Proposed 'exploratory' swim on the River
Thame
Hello,
I have done some scouting about and around the Thame between
Great
Milton and where it eventually joins the Thames proper at
Dorchester
looking for a new and interesting swim.
I have come up with a speculative route (it could be done 'in
one'
or
split into two parts) which I'll list below, however I have no
idea if
the river in the proposed part is
i. Deep enough to swim on all the way down ii. What the hazards are (if any)
There is no foot path that runs along side all the way like the
Thames,
but there are some parts where a foot path does come along
side.
So this isn't really something I'd be comfortable doing with
'new
comers' or those that don't know their own limits - so if you
need
to
get out, how far you are from 'civilization' in case of cold
or if
you
are nervous and would only want to swim part of it as there
are no
foot
paths etc.
It isn't that long in terms of distance (no longer say than
many
of the
swims we have done in the past - Buscot - Kelmscott for
example)
but as
I simply cannot walk this swim prior to attempting it, I just
am not
sure how long it will take.
Hopefully I haven't scared you all off and wondered if any of
you
would
be interested in having a go, with me on this. We would need a
couple of
cars (I have one) for the start/finish as walking back would be
along a
busy road and because of the lack of paths quite long.
One spot does finish at the pub so it isn't all bleak.
I wanted to try to get in the lesser known rivers of
Oxofordshire
this
year and having done a big chunk of the River Windrush
already in
stages
(which has been a 'hoot-an-a-half' so far) thought this might
be a
good
one too.
I didn't want to advertise this as an OSS Social because I
don't
think
this is really one for those that want to get head down and
hammer
along
nor for those that just want a gentle plod (at least not
until it
has
been swam once and then we will all have a better idea).
Here is are the proposed spots:
Here is a good start point
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf9UyOf9
You can park the car about 20 yards in a lay-by and get in at
the
bridge. Maybe two cars max, it is a bit remote.
http://www.multimap.com/s/OZ5Q0JSB is a possible in/out point
although
Parking here is awkward as the river is in the grounds of the
manor and
although the foot path goes through it, there is a 'no parking'
rule in
force, it might be tricky to leave a car here, you could
leave it
at the
end of the lane but even that is awkward and quite far away.
So we could swim on then to here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mf8cyBX9
A nice easy pub-by-the-river in/out point.
A bit further up is another easy in/out and park in lay-by
here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Mb4T5CRC
then finally get out at the bottom of a lane here:
http://www.multimap.com/s/Na5f3JTD
You can park the car easily here - maybe a 2 minute walk.
The river is quite high at the moment, but it is a smallish one
(about
the size of the windrush at its largest) and I am not sure
about
depth
all the way down, but it is a nice 'in the open and away from
it
all' swim.
There are a variety of paths that run alongside some of it
and criss
cross in places, so at a push we can get out legally.
Any one up for this?
James (aka Adam Smith)
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way
suggest
that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own
risk
and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a free e-mail account with Hotmail. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other
swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go
swimming. If
you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on
your own
initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other
swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that
outdoor
swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with
other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Get a new e-mail account with Hotmail - Free. Sign-up now.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
OSS Oxon mailing list OSSOxon@earth.li http://www.earth.li/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/ossoxon
Please note that OSS Oxon exists to put swimmers in touch with other swimmers, not to organise swim events or in any way suggest that outdoor swimming is a safe activity or that you should go swimming. If you choose to swim you do so entirely at your own risk and on your own initiative, and any plans you make are your own responsibility.
Dear Fellow OSSers
I have been skulking about watching all this correspondence with interest but unfortunately, can't make either the exploratory swim or the big jump - GOOD LUCK everyone and I hope you have a good time. Thank you James for organising. I am going to help Kate at the silent swim on 17th July so may see some of you there.
I have been told about an outdoor swimming lake in Little Marlow where they run a try a professional wetsuit rental scheme for £5 and it is £5 to swim in the lake (with safety supervision etc and lessons available). I am planning to go one Monday soon - it starts at 5 p.m. but I may go a little later. As I haven't got a wetsuit this seems like a good idea to try one for size first. Does anyone want to join me and have a lift to Little Marlow one Monday evening soon. I work very near Oxford so can pick from there and nearby.
the website is h t t p://w w w.open water swim. co. uk /
Best wishes
Simon
_________________________________________________________________ http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/197222280/direct/01/ Do you have a story that started on Hotmail? Tell us now
-
Bob Bradley -
Claire Tuckett -
davebowen47＠tiscali.co.uk -
Ed Chipperfield -
Edward Chipperfield
-
Jaime Tinker -
James Lowe -
Laura -
Pam -
Rebecca White -
Simon Steen -
Tim Bond