The Weekly Freestyle

Alex Sutton and contributors from the swimming world and beyond

Alex Sutton and an array of guests from within and outside of the swimming world to discuss life between the lanes. With expert analysis and unrivalled insight this is your place to get your swimming scoop.

  1. Shark Attacks, 30°C Pools & the Brutal Reality of Long Course Racing

    28 ENE

    Shark Attacks, 30°C Pools & the Brutal Reality of Long Course Racing

    Alex Sutton is joined by co host Luke Withers for a wide ranging catch up as the racing season kicks off. They open with life updates from the pool, including the shock of swimming in an uncomfortably warm 30.8°C pool, where masters swimmers voiced their complaints and Alex reluctantly admits to being one of them. Luke shares stories from a busy start to the season as both a swimmer and coach, while Alex reflects on returning to regular training and the small identity crisis that comes with moving between different pool environments. The conversation then turns to open water swimming following the cancellation of the Sydney Harbour Splash after multiple shark attacks along the New South Wales coast. Alex and Luke explore how open water racing differs from pool swimming, why it is an inherently aggressive and unpredictable sport, and the unique skills required to manage mass starts, positioning, and sprint finishes. Luke shares his own experiences training in open water and discusses future ambitions, while both highlight why pool swimmers often underestimate the physical and mental demands of open water racing. To wrap up, Alex breaks down his first long course race, including a 400m and a sub 30 second 50m freestyle, with Luke providing technical insight into sprinting, pacing, and why long course and short course swimming should never be treated as interchangeable. The episode closes with a new quick fire segment, Three Questions with Withers, touching on the Enhanced Games, swimming meme culture, and whether scrolling through gala results is really the best way to find a girlfriend. Enjoy 😀

    33 min

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Alex Sutton and an array of guests from within and outside of the swimming world to discuss life between the lanes. With expert analysis and unrivalled insight this is your place to get your swimming scoop.

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