Around The World In 80 Waves

Walk along the shoreline of the bay where I see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Many will know I like a bit of open water swimming and it was always my intention of swimming from Alcatraz  to the mainland whilst here. The original plan was to be here by my birthday and do the swim to show that turning 40 means nothing. However I was told it would be too cold after September and delays to the sale of my flat meant that me arriving before then was unlikely so I haven’t done the training I would need to. However the chat about the temperature is clearly rubbish because there is one guy swimming without even wearing a wetsuit. I ask one dude as he gets out and the water is still about 12C. It only ever gets to about 14C around the UK in the height of summer! Sea lions are clearly visible in the water and will come and check out each of the swimmers. A tad more concerning would be the big fish with sharp teeth that feed on the sea lions but ‘Escaping’ from the island is definitely do-able. Maybe when I fly back in after a few weeks of surfing in Hawaii…

I see a lot more of the sights and then head back to catch up with Kevin. I spot a knitting shop on the way and pop in to see if they have a sewing needle with an eye that is big enough for the whipping twine I bought in New Jersey to repair my rucksack because it was already showing signs of strain. I am met by a trio of game old ladies who say, “We don’t see much of your sort in here” as I step through the door. I have a quick chat with them whilst the owner finds something suitable for me and tell them what I am doing over the next year, including the five month overland trip down to Lima when I get back from Hawaii. Quick as a flash one says “I’m free for the next five months. Can I come with you?” Outstanding it is only a week in and I have pulled already on this trip!