Bancrofts Insight Newsletter Autumn 2019 Final

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T R I P S A N D V I S I T S
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Montenegro Swim Trek
Jemima Strong 5W
Against the breath-taking backdrop of Montenegro, we swam at least 5k a day in a variety of open water types: fjords, the beautiful
Lake Skadar, the tranquil Maraca River, the Adriatic Sea, hidden coves and the famous cave of Plava explored the Bay of Kotor
whilst visiting historic towns dotted along the shoreline.This was a challenge that took me outside of my comfort zone, involved much
risk taking but with perseverance, determination and resilience, I have a newfound confidence, made lasting friendships and have the
most unforgettable memories.
Eleven pupils, accompanied by Mrs Cheshire, Miss Korcz and Mr Pollock, stayed at the Perast Palace, just metres from the water’s
edge and my room had spectacular views over Kotor. After an acclimatisation swim, we explored the local met ‘Grandma’,
our amazing chef, who prepared our daily traditional breakfasts and packed lunches and occasionally dinner, if we did not go
out to a local restaurant.
I was extremely nervous for our first swim which took us to two islands just off Perast: St George and Our Lady of the
travelled everywhere on a private boat piloted by SwimTrek guides.The water was crystal clear and warm; the weather balmy, but I had
5k ahead of me and had to find courage and stamina.There was always the opportunity to climb on the boat if you needed a break and
we all encouraged and supported each were given sweet drinks at regular intervals to keep our sugar levels up. The group
was tested to the limit but formed a great bond and knew we were looking out for each other.
The fourth day was the most daunting for me as we visited Lake Skadar, a freshwater swimming experience which was deep and quite
cold. Nevertheless, there was always good humour amongst the would play music in between swims, dance on the deck with
our guides Morgan and Marlys, or sunbathe on the front of the boat. Saving the best until last, day six was my most
travelled to Zanjica on the border of Croatia.There we explored theWWII submarine tunnels in swam in and out of caves
along the Adriatic coast ending in “Plava Spilja”, a nine-metre-high cave which we explored.
This was the first of many SwimTreks that Mrs Cheshire hopes to arrange.This was my most rewarding school trip. It was beyond
my expectations and I understand the water so much more. I have lost my fear of the unknown and have improved my fitness and
endurance. We had the perfect balance of work and play, and I have returned self-assured, with a positive mindset. In the words of
Summer Sanders (USA gold medallist in swimming),“The things you learn from sports - setting goals, being part of a team, confidence –
that’s invaluable. It’s not about trophies and ribbons. It’s about being on time for practice, accepting challenges and being fearful of
the elements.” And to remember the words of Mrs Cheshire,“It’s a journey not a race”; this is a philosophy I will now be
applying to everything going forward.
This is a journey, not a race.
M R S C H E S H I R E
When I was invited on the first school swimming tour,
I was honoured to have been offered such an amazing
opportunity. Little did I know this was to be more than
swimming training. As Mrs Cheshire said from the outset,
“This is a journey, not a race” and what a journey it was!