They say it shouldn’t happen to a vet, but it did for John Reid. Rob Ouldcott was also a winner today.
The late Alan Titmuss, a lifetime stalwart of Serpentine swimming club, would have been smiling kindly from high above on the Serpentine swimmers today and also on his family this week. Alan’s wife Paulette Titmuss was present with her family to make the prize presentations for both of today’s races. Paulette also welcomed three new grandchildren to her family. By coincidence, today would also have been Alan’s birthday.
Some of the elder members who competed in the vets race might recall the excellent TV series ‘It shouldn’t happen to a vet, well it happened for John Reid, serial trophy winner, as he won the veteran’s 110 yard dash. John was followed home by Brian Thomas and Tony Cleaver.
In the small race, the less portly than usual Rob Ouldcott won the 440 yard race. Rob whose conversations and thoughts are peppered with “Brest” and “Ars” claims that it’s all about the bike these days. Having slimmed down to 105kgs (17 stone in old money, or 400 pounds for any Americans in the room) Rob believe that his cycle ride training will stand him in good stead when he cycles from Brest to Ars, France in a few weeks time. Rob says that “the thought of cycling for Breast and Prostate cancer does bring a serious element to what should be a fun filled trial." Rob also added that "cycling is fun, because unlike swimming, you can eat without getting your food wet."
Thanks once again to Paulette Titmuss for the prize presentations and to Norm for the great memories of Alan.
[John Tierney]
Johntierneyswim at live dot com
