Henley bridge to bridge (now named Thames Marathon) is a 14k downstream swim (does help!!) in the beautiful and idyllic location on the Thames. It’s the longest swimming race I’ve entered, so was a real Unknown. With the family woken at 05.30, the race started at 7.30: I was off. There were 4 sections split with 3 great feeding stations at 4K, 6k, 1.5k and 2.5k.

You get into a rhythm and your mind can wander and be free. Although there were shallow reeds, I was loving my horror movie I made up!! The tow float is compulsory and was fine to swim with. The feeds stations had lots of variety and I didn’t need any gels:-)) The end was in sight and arms burning. Always the competitor I was fighting to the end, 5th female overall. 3 hours and 6 minutes of hard work but wonderful and definitely do it again. 100% recommend.’

As raced and reported by Sarah Hempenstall