Ron Collins' Catalina Channel Attempt Sept 1-2, 2010

After the bagpipes:
There were 2.75 nautical miles to go and it was understood that Ron did not want to take feedings after the 3 statute mile mark, so he declined that feeding. His stroke rate dramatically deteriorated from 48 to 44, and there was no kick at all.
At 8:17 he asked for a feeding and drinking half and spilling half. Don Van Cleve put on his swimsuit in anticipation of jumping in to get him out. He was still making steady progress and although his stroke rate was now at 41, we were still hopeful.
At approximately 8:33, he paused, looked confused repeatedly saying "WHAT?" Don jumped in and swam up to him and said "The swim is over my friend". He did not protest and let Don guide him back to the boat. They reached the steps at about 8:35. Getting him out of the water proved difficult, taking Don, Bruce Newell and Captain Jeff to get him up. Beth Barnes and the kayak came back on board.
We wrapped him in a very large towel and he huddled, embraced by crew in the back starboard corner of the boat. He said very slowly "I think I could have finished".
We spent time rubbing his skin and passively warming him. He said he has no memory of this although he appeared aware of us and the surroundings. Baywatch EMTs came on board to evaluate his condition and recommended that he be admitted to the hospital for further evaluation.
After we got back to dock, he was taken by ambulance to St. Mary's Hospital in Long Beach and I heard that he was admitted with a body temperature of 91F. This would have been close to three hours after we stopped the swim. He spent the night at the hospital under observation .
Ron has recovered and wants to try again. Hopefully conditions will be better for him next time!
This is Ron's website
www.DistanceMatters.com

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• Catalina
• Channel
• Swimming
• Federation

[roncollins]

Thanks for posting this, Lynn. I get chills watching this video, especially the end. I still have no recollection of the bagpipes. On Facebook, I called this "Part 1" because I plan to come back when the water's not setting records for being so cold.