Amateur athletes in Bahrain training for the upcoming Ironman event in December are being urged to be sensible, especially when taking to the waters for swimming practice.
Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar recommends those preparing for the event to only swim in the company of others, in order to minimise the chances of a drowning tragedy.
Speaking on the Interior Ministry’s Al Aman show on social media, he stated that while it is admirable that participants are training well, their priority should be to finish and receive the medal.
“The Ironman race is a wonderful event and everybody involved enjoys the day, especially participants who truly appreciate its beauty,” said Col Dr Bahar.
“If you are preparing for the race, or know someone who has signed up and is training for it, there are some important tips you should know.
“I am sure the running and cycling training is going smoothly, but the real challenge is swimming.
“It requires extra caution. Never swim unless someone is watching you or swimming right besides you.
“In the open seas, if something happens, there may be no turning back. Therefore, I recommend joining groups, such as the one that meets at dawn on Saturday in Reef Island or Salman Town.”
The upcoming Ironman 70.3 Middle East Championship Bahrain marks a historic 10th anniversary edition, to be held on December 11.
The race is famously lightning-fast, and known for taking athletes directly through a mix of modern urban landscape and historic sporting venues.
A 1.9km swim course begins in the crystal-clear waters directly in front of the iconic Reef Island in Manama, the 90km biking course is a unique single-loop route that takes cyclists past the modern cityscapes of Manama, all the way to the tarmac of the Bahrain International Circuit, and a 21.1km running course takes participants directly through the heart of Manama’s cityscape, ending at the finish line surrounded by spectators.
Because the swimming loop is set inside a sheltered bay, athletes enjoy calm, flat waters with virtually no ocean swells, making it highly attractive for first-timers and athletes targeting personal bests.
For those competitors, Col Dr Bahar has five key points that he believes they should all follow as they train for the event:
- First, I strongly advise you, under no circumstance, should you swim alone, it does not matter how fit you are. Being with someone is far safer.
- Secondly, never swim without a buoy. It must be bright and eye-catching so that passing boats and jet skis can see you. If you get tired while training, you can rest on it for a while.
- Thirdly, drink plenty of fluids before and after your workout. Fluids help prevent untimely muscle cramps, especially if the sea is warm during your session.
- Fourthly, stay away from bridges and boat channel entrances. Visibility is poor there because of unpredictable currents and high waves, making it difficult for boat captains to see you.
- Fifthly, keep your training parallel to the shoreline and stay close to it. Stay within five metres of the shallow end so that if you get tired, you can stop your workout without needing to be rescued.
“Aiming to beat last year’s timing is an admirable goal, but staying healthy, getting to the finish line safely and receiving your medal is a better one,” said Col Dr Bahar.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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