Today marked the official start of open-water swimming season in Seattle. The celebratory event, held on the east shore of Green Lake, was open to the public--everyone was invited to take part. The majority, however, chose to express their enthusiasm from shore, showering participants with emboldening cheers (not) and incredulous stares. Paddle boat riders joined in the excitement by offering shouts of encouragement (not) and incredulous stares. Record high temperatures (for 2011) of nearly 70 brought throngs to Green Lake before the wind picked up and clouds covered the sky. The timing of this long-planned (30 minutes) and much lauded (by a select few) event was impeccable.
Here are the participants preparing for entry into the refreshing waters (note: while a temperature reading was not available, historical data indicate a likely range of 58 to 62 degrees F) of Green Lake:
And the swimmers pose for the press to the roar of on-lookers (gawkers):
And, finally, the swimmers emerge triumphant from the cross-lake swim, relieved and delighted that the wetsuit still fits:
Associated Press wishes to thank Texas for in-depth photographic coverage of the event.
