I've been mentored by Simon for the past two years, and the transformation has been incredible.

Two years ago, I couldn't swim more than one kilometre and was terrified of injuring myself in open water. I would have never thought of entering any competition.

With Simon's guidance, I've gained confidence and control over my emotions. His swimming training sessions were very cleverly tailored and included weekly endurance, speed, and threshold training, which I followed.

His encouragement and positive mindset helped me not only participate in races but also win age-group gold medals in 3K and 5K international swimming competitions. I lost 2 stone in weight, and I'm now aiming for a 10K this year and crossing the Channel next year. Simon doesn't just teach swimming; he unlocks your potential, making you a happier person with a deep connection to the water. His passion for outdoor swimming, deep understanding of swimming technique, and ability to create tailored plans for each competition have significantly improved my performance. Beyond the physical training, he helped me understand the water, introduced me to a supportive swimming community, and guided me through swimming tactics for each race.

Simon's mentorship was crucial in overcoming a very difficult period in my life during the earthquake that happened in my hometown. Swimming definitely healed me and helped me overcome depression.

Thank you from deep in my heart, Simon!

Muge (UK / Turkey)

I completed the Alcatraz swim on Sunday. Last year my time was a dismal 1 hour and 27 minutes; I not only swam slowly, but I also had difficulties swimming straight. This year I trimmed my time to 50:23. While that time still landed me towards the back of the pack, it's an improvement nonetheless. My goal was to swim the 1.5 miles in under one hour so I feel good that I improved by more than 30 minutes.  

Thanks for all of your assistance. I am definitely swimming at a better pace thanks to your feedback and guidance. I have a long way to go before I am respectable, but I have a clearer understanding of the elements of my technique that still need improvement and will continue to work on the drills that you shared. Also, the advice and information that you gave me about the other elements of open water swimming (nutrition, sighting, chafing, goggles with prescription lenses, etc.) proved to be invaluable.

Brian

Simon is a fantastic swim mentor as he's an inspirational swimmer and he's so generous with his knowledge and his experience. When I first spoke to Simon about venturing into open water swimming, I was a confident pool swimmer but hadn't raced anything further than 400m and I only considered a sea swim to be a cooling plunge or an opportunity for body surfing. With Simon's guidance, I've pushed up the distance, cranked up the adventure and discovered that waves are also exhilarating for 'head down-goggles on' swimming. I'm so glad I took the plunge and followed his advice!
Lucy