Julie-Ann has always swum. If there was water, she’d be in it. But for the past six years, she has fully embraced open water swimming and dipping, becoming deeply involved in the community and loving every minute of it.
I on the other hand have up until recently been a casual observer, a driver to the dips, the towel holder, but never getting in. Why? Well I have had a fear of water for as long as I can remember and lacked confidence in my ability in the water. No amount of encouragement from anyone would help.
My best friend Ian had been by my side for years. When he decided to branch out and start Kuotos Swim, I was absolutely delighted for him.
We travelled over to Stoke and Ian gave me a few simple pointers to improve my swimming technique. To be honest, I didn’t think it would make much difference.
I was wrong.
Just a few small adjustments dramatically improved my confidence in the water. For the first time, I began to believe I might actually be able to swim properly.
Fast forward to Kuotos Swim Majorca 2024, and although still very nervous of the water, Ian’s coaching helped me build on what he’d taught me before. For the first time I swam the length of a 50m pool. But that was not the end of it. We went to the beach and I swam out to some bouys and couldn’t believe I’d done it. This was the furthest I’d swum in open water, ever!
Next came Majorca 2025, and I wanted to try to do much more. I loved the pool sessions, and later in the trip we were heading to a long sea swim. I tried to talk myself out of it, again doubting my ability, but Ian encouraged me to do what I could and at any stage I could turn to the beach and get out. Instead I managed a 2km (approximately) open water swim.
Finally, on the 22nd Feb 2026, Jules and I travelled to Wales for the Welsh Winter Swim in Llanberis. We entered the 250m Challenge Swim, and although I was very nervous, I knew I could do it, and I did, even with the water being 5.8 degrees!
This journey wouldn’t have happened without Ian and Kuotos Swim. He has been a brilliant friend, and a fabulous swim coach, especially since we live in Northern Ireland, some distance away from Staffs. He sends hints and tips across for me and has set Julie-Ann a training plan for an event later this year. Neither of us would have had the chance to participate in the different events that we’ve been at without the Kuotos family, and the encouragement from Ian.
