A Bluetit 2 Channel Relay Team experience
From my early teens, swimming has been a constant in my life. While I never swam competitively, I found joy and physical well-being through regular pool sessions. In my twenties, I took part in three Swimathon challenges, with the longest distance being 5 km.
In my mid-forties, I was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. My wife, having read about the benefits of cold water dipping, encouraged me to give it a try. She had also seen a Facebook post from a woman looking to start a swimming group in Ballyronan, Northern Ireland. One October morning, I ventured out for my first open water dip. The water was a mild 10°C, though it felt much colder to me at the time. After the swim, I swore I’d never do it again. However, as the day went on, I began to notice subtle improvements in my mood and energy. Encouraged by this, I decided to try again.
That decision marked the beginning of an incredible journey. It also introduced me to my swim buddy Mary and the Bluetits Chill Swimmers community. Over the next few years, I gradually progressed from short dips to longer swims, setting personal challenges and extending my distance in open water. I later qualified as an open water swim coach through a Bluetits programme, which allowed me to support others in safely discovering the benefits of cold water swimming. The knowledge I gained also improved my own technique and confidence in the water.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the Bluetits was the connections I made with swimmers across the UK. Their stories inspired me, none more so than Makala Jones. We met during Bluetit events and Zoom sessions while training to become coaches. Makala went on to complete a solo English Channel crossing—my first real introduction to the Channel swim challenge. In support of her, Mary and I swam 21 miles over 21 days to help raise funds. It was a tough undertaking, but incredibly fulfilling—and certainly not as demanding as a solo Channel swim.
Soon after, conversations began around forming a relay team. In June 2024, Bluetit 1 completed their swim, which inspired me to be part of Bluetit 2. Our six-person relay team included three swimmers from Northern Ireland and three from Wales—five women and myself. We trained diligently for 10 months, often in cold winter conditions in our local pond before returning to open water in April.
As the date approached, we completed our medicals, qualifying swims, and all the logistical preparations. On 2nd June 2025, we set off—taking the ferry from Belfast to Liverpool and then driving to Deal, where we waited for our swim window to open. We passed the time with gentle swims in Dover Harbour and shared stories with other relay teams also awaiting their chance. The anticipation was palpable. Unfortunately, unpredictable winds delayed us. As our original 10-day swim window expired, we were fortunate that our pilot boat, Masterpiece, and its captain offered us an extended opportunity due to an improving forecast.
Finally, at 6 p.m. on 12th June, we received the call: “We’re good to go.” The mood was a mix of excitement, nervous energy, and relief. Under cover of darkness, we made our way to Samphire Hoe. I had been nominated to start the swim. I jumped in, swam to shore, cleared the water, and began the first hour of our relay. Swimming in the dark beside a boat was completely new to me. It felt isolating—perhaps the loneliest place I had ever experienced—but spotting the next swimmer preparing to take over brought comfort.
After that first leg, I returned to the boat feeling shocked and emotionally drained. I rested, ate, and prepared for the next turn. Swims two and three were far more enjoyable, with calm seas, clear skies, and warm sun—aside from the occasional jellyfish encounter.
After my third swim, I believed I was done for the day. With five other strong swimmers, I hoped we would reach France before my next rotation. However, the Channel had other plans. Progress stalled with the changing tides, and despite the shoreline being in sight, we weren’t moving fast enough. I prepared myself mentally for a fourth swim. Though exhausted and unsure, I drew on a deep reserve of determination I hadn’t known I had. That final leg turned out to be my strongest. When the dinghy approached, I knew the finish was close. As the final changeover took place, I was told to keep swimming. Shortly after, I felt the surf break against my back, and a few strokes later, I hit the seabed and walked onto French soil.
Our team—Makala, Mary, Manda, Dawna, Sian, and myself—completed the relay in 19 hours and 7 minutes. While we didn’t set any records, we achieved something unforgettable together. With the incredible support of our pilots, Harry and Fred, we each gave it our all. We are now officially English Channel Relay Swimmers.
This experience was life-changing. It was physically and emotionally demanding, but also deeply rewarding. I’ll always treasure the journey, the friendships, and the memories we created along the way.
- Ricky Holmes, Bluetit 2 Channel Relay Team member
To read Sian's Bluetit 1 experience, click here.