Swimming
All you need to know about this aquatic adrenaline fix so take the plunge for some uphill swimming.
Even though the route of Red Bull Neptune Steps along the Maryhill Locks in Glasgow was basically an assault course on water there were still 80 swimmers willing to rise to the challenge. That’s right, we actually found 80 people brave enough to take on this 420m sprint swim.
Still don’t believe us? Check out the video below to see some Red Bull Neptune Steps action for yourself and then read on for more about the event.
So, Red Bull Neptune Steps… what’s the big idea? The challenge that was laid down to those signing up was simple, but also deliciously complicated. Open-water swimmers were invited to take on the 420m course through Glasgow’s Maryhill Locks – that’s the simple part. Where it starts to get a little more complicated is when the swimmers were tasked with climbing a range of obstacles at various points along the stretch of canal. After all, you can’t breaststroke your way up a climbing wall, can you?
And you found nearly 100 people to participate in this mayhem? The best open-water swimmers in the world were quick to descend on Glasgow when they heard about the unique competition that was being hosted on the city’s canals. They came from as far away as France and Sweden to dip their toes into Red Bull Neptune Steps. However, taking the honour of first prize was local lad Mark Deans. The champ said, “It feels great to win the first ever Neptune Steps. There were so many tough competitors, so to come out on top and take the win feels amazing. Swimming in the canal was a unique experience and being five minutes from my front door made it a special event to take part in.”
So it’s all a bit different to eight and a bit lengths of the local pool? There’s no doubt about it that these folk are in great shape, but don’t just take our word for it. Adam Walker, the first British person to complete the seven toughest ocean swims in the world, was in attendance and was impressed with what he saw. Walker said, “Red Bull Neptune Steps is a very exciting event, it tests each competitors overall fitness using strength and stamina. Winning the race is a testament not only to Mark's talent as a swimmer, but also to his spirit and determination.”
It sounds like everybody is getting in the mood for uphill swimming in Scotland? Aye, even the Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Gordon Matheson, was on hand to give the race the thumbs up. Councillor Matheson said, “Red Bull’s Neptune Steps race highlights the city’s innovative approach to hosting events. We were delighted to welcome participants from across the UK who brought tremendous energy and a competitive spirit to the event while the many spectators provided a warm Glasgow welcome.”
DO SAY: “Give me a hand with my zip and I’ll be right in.” DON'T SAY: “Looks like an uphill struggle to me.”
