Rookie Surf Swim Clinics:
Venues: Blacksmiths Beach & Caves Beach
When? Blacksmiths Beach June 18 & June 25
Meet on beach in front of lifeguard tower for 9am sharp start.
Where? Meet on sand in front of lifeguard tower at both beaches - coach Spot will be finishing other squads so look for him.
Who for? For people new to open water swimming, scared of the open water or just to refresh before doing an open water squad. Minimum safety standard is 500 metres - 1km non-stop freestyle (no exceptions).
Other Swims? On the same day we have an 8:30am Experienced Swimmers Swim (2 - 4km+ total). Timetable/ Bookings here

Here’s how it works…
1. We do an intro chat with Coach Spot going through surf swim basics:
- study surf conditions on. the day & discuss rips/ sand banks.
- work out best way to get out the back behind any waves on the day.
- tips about how to get under waves & what to do if you panic.
- discuss navigating once out the back to help you swim in a straight & shorter line!
- learn to swim with other people around you just like an ocean swim or triathlon without panicking.
- chill out tips in case you do panic!
2. We start with a relaxed swim at your own pace heading out through the waves.
- coach Spot will always stay at the back to ease your fears. We re-group out the back & swim back to shore.
- repeat above a few times until we are all comfortable. Faster swimmers will swim 50 - 100 stroke past the break & slower swimmers will stay with Coach Spot.
3. We do swim out the back along the beach behind the surf.
- we give you some deeper water experience & confidence. We may repeat this a few times to practice your new skills.

What you need to do:
1. Make sure you can swim 500 metres to 1km non-stop freestyle as this is our safety standard. This must be done in a pool (no flippers) & if you can, please give Coach Spot a time.
This is critical as we take duty of care seriously & rely on you being able to swim!
2. Register online here - it’s important that we know you are coming in advance. We have another swim on the morning for experienced swimmers with timetable link here
3. Arrive early to the venue - usually Coach Spot will be running a squad so come & check out what the more experienced swimmers are doing.
4. Make sure you have a swim cap, goggles & swimmers. Some people wear wetsuits even when it’s warm. If you have one & are comfortable in it feel free to wear it. Wetsuits help you float so are a good option IF you are comfortable in it.