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Competed in the Oceanman race in Cozumel with limited preparation time – a look at the event's outcomes

With the addition of a welcoming swimming group, Bel Woodhouse opted to participate in the Oceanman race in Cozumel, despite only having a meager training duration of one month.

Participated in the Oceanman competition in Cozumel with minimal preparation time, and this is the...
Participated in the Oceanman competition in Cozumel with minimal preparation time, and this is the account of the event

Competed in the Oceanman race in Cozumel with limited preparation time – a look at the event's outcomes

In the heart of the Riviera Maya, Playa Mantarrayas stands as a beacon for both leisure swimmers and athletes training for challenging events. This tropical paradise, situated in Cozumel, offers a unique blend of tranquil waters and a vibrant swim community that has inspired one writer on a remarkable journey.

This writer, an experienced author, photographer, and videographer with over 500 published articles across various print and digital platforms, found a new passion here. After visiting the beach, he decided to take up swimming and signed up for the 1.5 km sprint of Oceanman, a swimming event similar to Ironman but without running or cycling.

His first swimming event was Oceanman, an experience he completed in two-thirds of the allocated time. The ocean around Playa Mantarrayas is safe, calm, and warm, making it an ideal location for both novice and experienced swimmers.

The writer's friend Robyn, a 73-year-old marathon runner, accompanied him to the event. They were both encouraged and supported by the local swimmers, including a swim coach named Victor, who is often present at the beach. This supportive environment has made Playa Mantarrayas a popular training location for various athletic events.

The Oceanman swimming competitions are organised by the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) State Association Lower Saxony e.V. (DLRG Landesverband Niedersachsen e.V.). The writer, who is also an ex-Navy personnel, felt inspired by the warmth and support of the local swimmers' community in Mexico.

Playa Mantarrayas is not just a training ground; it's a haven for marine life as well. Tropical fish, sea fans, eels, angelfish, and stingrays can be found in the waters around the beach. The ocean swimmers' beach, open to all and free to use, attracts people of various ages, shapes, and sizes, creating a diverse and supportive swim community.

The writer, who is the Mexico Correspondent for International Living and has lived in the Mexican Caribbean for over 7 years, fell in love with Mexico. He feels encouraged by the community's support and plans to try the 5-kilometer swim next year. With the inspiring environment of Playa Mantarrayas and the support of the local swim community, there's no doubt he'll continue to make waves in the world of swimming.

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