I was trying to gauge somewhat how far I've been swimming, but I don't have an accurate way to. I've used mapmytri and figured that 5 round trip laps within the outside lines is around a half mile. Anyone know if that's even close to accurate? Does anyone from their experience have a better, more accurate measurement using landmarks within the pond? It would be very helpful to me.

Also, if anyone is interested in some open water swimming there with a partner/group before the mid-summer tri let me know!

- Eric

Eric,
Here's what I came up with last year. It's deemed generally accurate. I think both Randy and I agree that it's somewhere in the neighborhood of 685 yards.

Klineline Route

Here's how I sight the available landmarks to come up with this route.

Starting from the piling that has the little bird house looking thing on it, next to the south viewing platform, I head straight for the huge tree at the sound wall. You'll see it pretty clearly in the g-map and it's easy to sight off of. I go until I am lined up with the metal post that is on the south bank, just before you run out of pond.

Left turn and head towards the wooden structure that looks like an old hoist-boom. If the water is low enough, you'll actually see a tiny "waterfall" flowing into the pond at the back/east-side of the corner. Again, if you feel like you are running out of pond, it's time to turn.

Follow the bank in an arc until you get to the black fish-pen.

Head towards the north viewing platform until you can just about see the pilings lined up in a straight shot back to the start. Don't go in too far towards the viewing platform, as folks may have lines in the water. Use the pilings to judge positioning to the finish. It's another way to tell if you are swimming straight without sighting.

Doug