COPPA BYRON - ITALY

After a relaxed breakfast we climb to the top of Lerici castle to view today’s swim route. Your guide will point out the swim’s key landmarks and points of reference from this spectacular viewpoint. Before the swim we attend the race registration and briefing in Lerici. We then travel to the other side of the Bay of Poets to Portovenere for the start of the swim.

The crossing can be thought of as being split into three parts; the first stage takes in the coastline near Portovenere. Settle into your stroke for the second section along the breakwater. Mussel beds are dotted along the length of the wall. Keep an eye out for the remains of an old fishing boat, its mast still clearly visible above the surface. After crossing the bay we enter the third and final stage of the swim towards the tranquil harbour of San Terenzo to finish on Lerici beach.

Whether you decide to take part in the race to win it, or just to go along at a comfortable pace, don’t forget to take in your surroundings as you enjoy swimming in the wake of Byron. Following the race there is a chance to celebrate at the post-event award ceremony and buffet dinner, which is included in your trip.

We have a relaxed morning after yesterday’s energetic swim before hotel check out 11:00. For those with flights later in the day, Lerici hosts a great outdoor 50m pool for a swim down following yesterday's exertions. You may choose to visit Byron’s Grotto in Portovenere, where the poet would often swim whilst staying there. Alternatively, you can walk to Villa Magni, Shelly’s home in San Terenzo where Byron would visit after his swim.

Swimming Affiliation

All participants must be members of a FINA (International Swimming Federation) accredited swimming club. Swimmers who do not belong to a local swimming club can obtain temporary affiliation through the Italian Swimming Federation, the cost is €18 and payable locally. Please fill in your race registration form accordingly.

Paperwork

The race organisers require a race registration form. Click the link here to download your form. Completed forms need to be photographed or scanned and must be uploaded to your swimmer profile by 27th June 2016. Log into your SwimTrek profile to add your form to the "Travel Details" section.

Race Organisers and Time Limit

Please be aware that whilst SwimTrek organise the tour part of this package, Lerici Sport are the organisers of the swim and are fully responsible for race safety, logistics and contingency planning. There is a time limit of two hours and 45 minutes to complete the course. A minimum swim speed of 22min/km is required.

Race Equipment

Wetsuits and fins are not permitted for this swim event, you will be provided with a brightly coloured swim hat which must be worn for the event. You should bring a swim costume, goggles and a towel. Swimming costumes need to be FINA approved. Regular swimming costumes without zips or fasteners are ideal.

Swimming Distance

Temperatures

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons we rely on decent weather conditions and decent water conditions for the race.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the sea is a fantastic experience, but you need to be aware of potential problems. Marine life such as jellyfish or sea urchins could be present on this swim. If stung by jellyfish you can normally carry on swimming. However if you do have a problem we can treat you on one of the escort boats.

You should contact us prior to booking if you suffer from Anaphylaxis. You should seek medical attention if you develop any infection following contact with the above.

There are many different options for travelling to Lerici. There are a number of scheduled services operating to Pisa and Genoa airports from various international cities. Please check a selection of these flights below, and take a look at www.skyscanner.net for alternative options. Lerici is around 75km from Pisa and 115km from Genoa.

Travelling via Pisa

Flights to Pisa are widely available from various British and European cities. A small selection of the airlines which fly into Pisa are included below:

SwimTrek Transfer

The easiest way to travel to Lerici is to connect with the designated SwimTrek transfer that departs from Pisa airport at 12:30 on 27 August 2016. The transfer from the airport costs between €15-€40 depending on the number of people taking advantage of it. Please email info@swimtrek.com to be put on the transfer list.

Public Transport from Pisa Airport

Regular buses connect Pisa airport to Pisa Train Station - this takes roughly 5 minutes. Trains depart every hour from Pisa Centrale to Sarzana train station. From Sarzana Central Square catch the S bus to Via Matteotti Bus Station (the journey time should roughly be 5 minutes). When facing the sea at the bus stop you will notice Localita Carbognano street on your left. Walk 200m up this street and you will see our accommodation at the Hotel Italia in front of you.

Taxi from Pisa or Genoa Airports

Taking a taxi from the airport is the quickest mode of transport to Lerici, however it is the more expensive option. An average fare will cost around €160 from Pisa and €180 from Genoa. Many taxi companies work out of the airport.

Accommodation

We stay at Hotel Italia in Lerici . It is located in a privileged position next to Lerici’s historic centre and is close to the beach, swim registration and finish line. The hotel has recently been fully renovated with comfortable rooms across two levels. Our accommodation is based on twin-share with en-suite facilities. Subject to availability there are a limited number of single and triple rooms available.

Supporters Package

There are a limited number of supporters tickets available which include shared accommodation with a race participant, as well as entry into all non-swimming events. Public ferries run near the swim route between Lerici and Portovenere but for the best view of the swimmers and for the event atmosphere we recommended for spectators to attend the finish line in Lerici.

Meals

Breakfasts are included on both mornings. After the swim race on the Sunday, a buffet dinner is served at the awards presentation. This is included in your package.

Extra Expenses

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as dinner on the first evening, entertainment, lunches, etc. Local currency is Euro (€). Cash machines are available in Lerici.

Passports and Visas

Italy is part of the European Union. You require a full passport to enter, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Citizens of most countries including all E.U. member states, U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Italy, however visa regulations do change, so please check again prior to travel.

Vaccinations

There are currently no essential vaccination requirements for Italy, but it is advisable to check eight weeks before you travel. You should ensure that your immunity to tetanus and polio is up-to-date.