A swimmer died racing the Alcatraz Challenge today.

The blog post is over at 'Just add water', my favorite open water swimming blog. Acatraz is not an easy swim. When I see articles about dogs, children, toddlers swimming from Alcatraz to the mainland I get real mad because it cheapens how hard it actually is to swim. It is NOT an easy swim and it is the hardest open water swim I have ever done and a swim I take very seriously. Last year I swam a total of of seven, 2-mile ocean swims as well as swimming 3-4 days a week in a pool to prepare. [Link] SF Gate Article with photos [Link]

UPDATE: This comment by Sylvia deserves front page listing regarding the Alcatraz death: "... Exactly! Even though I swim Alcatraz on a regular basis, there are times when I know I'm pushing my limits. (See last Friday afternoon's swim [post]. [Link]

While swimming it is an accomplishment for anyone, it is tough. When the kids are out there (1:1 or more coverage) and in wetsuits in the morning (much calmer water) I preface that it isn't at all the same as an afternoon skin swim with high swells and chop.

Any open water swimming is "swim at your own risk".

Years ago a woman entered one of the Alcatraz swim races and after 10 minutes in the water it was clear that she was having problems. Come to find out, she didn't know how to swim and thought this would be "a cool place to learn". ..."

I have to repeat, this is the hardest swim you will ever do.