Glorietta Bay Swim

I finally got to try out my new wetsuit. I rushed out of work yesterday to meet the tri club for a beginner's swim in coronado. It was SO awesome. Everyone was very nice and friendly. There were two coaches there, and most of the group was comprised of women. I got my wetsuit on and waded into the water, expecting to be shocked by the cold. Instead, I felt completely warm and protected from the chill of the water. Plus, the bay we were in was calm, protected, and with slightly warmer waters. We proceeded to swim out and back to a buoy about 100 m out several times, practicing sighting, swimming in a group, and simulated race starts as well as exits to the "transition area." Not only did the wetsuit keep me warm, but I can't believe how buoyant I was. I normally don't have to work very hard to float (it's the body fat) but this was ridiculous. I didn't even have to kick to keep my feet above the water! I could stand straight up and bob at the surface. The only thing that worries me is that I felt a little dizzy at times and was slightly naseous when I got out. It was a motion-sickness thing, I think. I had sort of vertigo either from water in the ears or from getting visually confused with the dark water contrasted with sighting. I would like to try ear plugs (but not at the race this Sunday--nothing new on race day) or the non-drowsy Dramamine (which helped me immensely with scuba diving--no side effects) to see if that helps. Other than that, I need LOTS of practice. Swimming in open water is fun, but much more disorienting and nerve-racking than pool swimming. At least, I feel ready for race day this Sunday.