Memories of Last Summer

At Ramsgate Baths

It’s been a while since I swam in Ramsgate Baths, on the Botany Bay Foreshores of Sydney, Australia. Last summer, in fact…

The reason?

Although I love the freshness of the sea, I’m scared of venomous sea-creatures such as sting-rays that can sometimes be found there.

And so, I stick to the river. That’s not to say that it’s hazard-free: it isn’t. But somehow, I’m less worried about the small chance of striking a jelly-blubber in the baths. Sharks, however, have been reported, but outside the swimming enclosure. They inhabit the river as well as the sea.

And yes, that’s me, braving Ramsgate Baths, last summer…

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A Lone Swimmer…

Me at Ramsgate Baths

This summer I have rarely ventured into the sea.

But, on one occasion I braved it at Ramsgate Baths, in Sydney’s Botany Bay Foreshores.

Under good conditions, nothing beats swimming in this delightfully salty and clear water.

In  a pounding surf, though, I am not strong enough to get in and out of these baths.  Sure, I can swim in  it, but the problem lies in the extraordinary power of moving water. It is so hard to keep on ones feet.

Still, on this particular day, despite tempting waves and pleasant weather, I swam alone.

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