Don a wet suit and a snorkel and take a plunge into the slimy, dark bog filled with peat water, awful sludge, black scorpion and who knows what else
Despite the fact that doctors have raised concerns about health effect against this sport, bog snorkeling gained enough popularity to even warrant a world championship of its own. Bog Snorkeling takes place in a 60 yard trench filled with water. This trench is usually cut through a peat bog and filled with water; the water taking the characteristic tan color when heavily saturated with peat bog. Those who take the least time in completing the two consecutive lengths of the 60 yard bog course by snorkeling is declared winner. Wetsuits are often worn, complete with snorkels and flippers, however they are not compulsory. Bog snorkeling also does not allow conventional swimming strokes like the breast stroke.
The World Championship of Bog Snorkeling takes place annually every August on Bank Holiday at the dense Waen Rhydd peat bog near Llanwrtyd Wells in mid Wales. The first World Championship of Bog Snorkeling was first held in 1985. Competitors from different countries don a wet suit and a snorkel and plunge into the slimy, dark bog filled with peat moss, sludge, scorpions, newts, snakes and who knows what else (okay, I’m kidding with the last part). The snorkeler who completes two laps of the 60 yard channel of filth first wins the title. Phillip John of Bridgend was the champion the year 2002, 2003, and 2004 until he was defeated by Ian Hawkes on 2005. Abigail James was the female champion, and Gareth Madelin was the champion for junior bog snorkeling for the years 2003 and 2004.
Other variation of the bog sport also surfaced. Like the mountain bike bog snorkeling where competitors ride with a mountain bike through the bog. The first World Mountain Bike Bog Snorkeling Championship took place in 2000. Since then, it has been a yearly event. Bikes used for this sport are heavily modified, the wheels of which are weighted and the metal structure filled with water. There is also another variation which is the Bog Snorkeling Triathlon.
The Bog Snorkeling Triathlon was launched in July 10, 2005. The triathlon was sponsored by Young’s Bitter. The Bog Snorkeling Traithlon event consists of running on an approximately 12 mile track, then a bog snorkeling of approximately 120 yards through the world famous Bog Trench and a mountain bike ride of approximately 25 miles. The Bog Snorkeling Triathlon have both an individual and a team relay event.
When addressed about bog snorkeling’s health concerns, Gordon Green (the inventor of bog snorkeling) points out that northern bogs (especially upland bogs in Wales) are acidic enough to kill most bacteria. The dark and vicious looking water despite the floating green muck, is safe for swimming as long as there aren’t any dead sheep lying around. True enough, no serious bog snorkelers to date have gotten sick. He even claimed that some natural bogs have fishes in them, particularly trout and chub, although bog swimmers would likely jump out if they see a wicked-looking scorpions. “Oh these scorpions are just harmless”, he says well-naturedly while eyeing rather anxiously on one already clinging to one of the post: a flat, black customer who indeed looked too wicked to be harmless. “They live off bog snorkelers,” Bradburn the local builder nearby remarks straight-faced, as he drives the white wooden stake into the bottom of the bog with a sledgehammer. “This is their one meal of the year.”
*Note: These black water scorpions are really harmless. It is often a specimen in most 5th or 6th grade biology classes.
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Snorkeling In Curacao
... of hand feeding fishes, rays, turtles and sharks in the Caribbean? Curacao is just the place for you. Top divers and snorkelers worldwide agree that Curacao is one of the best diving and snorkeling spot in the world. You will be guaranteed that there is no other place on earth that has the same great shore dives and you will have a chance to enjoy nature's beauty while snorkeling in Curacao. The "Curacao snorkel experience" is one of the best experiences you can have while visiting Curacao. Listed below are the top Curacao snorkeling spots: * Airplane Wreck - located near the Sunset Waters, this diving spot can be accessed by the beach (no need for a boat). A buoy marks the spot of which the remains of an airplane wreck can be found. * Barracuda Point or Punt'i Piku - territorial barracudas often follow divers at a distance on this Curacao snorkeling spot. Located across the channels of Barbara Beach,...
Bermuda Snorkeling
... very far since most of the entire beach length is full of life. Almost everywhere is something interesting to see. North of St. George's Golf Club is the Tobacco Bay - your Bermuda snorkeling destination. Tobacco Bay is very shallow although it gets a bit deeper as the ocean meets the beach waters. But the under water life here is so vibrant it is imperative to bring your family with you. Don't enjoy this underwater scenery alone. On the southeastern shore and east of Spittal Pond Nature Reserve and Watch Hill Park, is John Smith's Bay, another top Bermuda Snorkeling location. Another superb Bermuda snorkeling spot is West Whale Bay; it lies along the south shore at the west end of Southampton, west of the Port Royal Golf Course. This...
Snorkeling In Jamaica
... on a coral reef. Those have been protected with utmost care. Tread carefully as well on shallow waters because there might be sea urchins. It would be wise to wear slippers or swimming shoes if you are really serious in going snorkeling in Jamaica. * Put away all your accessories. Don't you know that Caribbean fish, especially barracudas, are drawn by shiny objects? When they can spot you wearing one, you seem like a silver fish which is their natural prey. You don't want to attacked, do you? * Sharks are rare to The Bog Snorkeling find and those that can be spotted are usually passive. When you go snorkeling in Jamaica and they are just around the corner, keep calm and if necessary, move slowly out of the water. You can also remain stiff as you wait for them to vanish. Snorkeling in Jamaica offers a unique aquatic experience especially for those who are water enthusiasts. You will get to explore the Carribean...
Welcome To The Best Snorkeling In The Caribbean
Islands which boasts some of the most impressive wrecks, lagoons and reefs in the entire ocean. The Bog Snorkeling The British Virgin Islands was full of activity since the age of pirates and seafarers. Not only men and ships frequented the area, a whole host of sea life also found the waters of this haven accommodating. Warn and clear a throughout the year, with enough sun to feed any every aquatic vegetation to culmination, this is the perfect underwater habitat. And any perfect underwater habitat makes a perfect snorkeling spot. The islands of St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas are among the best snorkeling in the Caribbean because of the historic shipwrecks and corals that dot along its shores. Cane Bay The Cane Bay wall in St. Croix is a deep underwater cliff that...
Snorkeling In Caribbean
... turn sustenance for yet a bigger species of creatures. All in all there is just so much to see by snorkeling in the Caribbean. Plus coupled by warm sunshine all through out the year, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it is enough to beckon any swimmer for some snorkeling in Caribbean. Most of the Caribbean snorkeling stations like one in St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands have marked the underwater The Bog Snorkeling trails so that snorkelers can find their way underwater. Signage are erected on some stationary attractions to describe the array of marine life situated there and to point out special places along the way so underwater explorers can learn about this underwater haven. And depending on the hotels you're staying or the package you're paying for, some offer snorkeling...
Maui Snorkeling
Because of such fact, people in Maui, Hawaii used to consider snorkeling as one of the best, exciting activities that every visitor in the island should indulge. It is no doubt the best way to experience the wonders underneath the The Bog Snorkeling Maui waters, and perhaps what makes Maui snorkeling great is that it is highly available throughout the Hawaiian area. There are four main spots in Maui that are deemed best for Maui snorkeling. These places are actually preserves, so it is important to take extra care when exploring these areas. These Maui snorkeling spots include the Ahihi Bay, Honolua Bay, Molokini Crater, a part of the La Perouse Bay, and the Oluwalu Turtle Reef. Let's take a closer look at these...
Welcome To The Best California Snorkeling
Channel Islands to form a unique underwater habitat where more than 1,000 plant and animal species thrive. Swim a couple of yards from the shore and see the superb diversity of sea life, and that's just in the first 60 ft. of depth. Add that to The Bog Snorkeling the fact that lowest visibility averages around 50 ft (normally it is higher than 50ft), and you'll start to understand why divers and snorkelers make regular pilgrimages to Catalina Islands. Santa Catalina Island is part of the eight island chain called the Channel Islands of California or also called the Santa Barbara Island. The Channel Islands is located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Southern California along the Santa Barbara Channel in the United States. In the last decade, five of the islands...
Belize Package Snorkeling
... right. IT is Belize. The second largest reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is also one of the most popular Belize snorkeling destinations. The reef's protection from the turbulent sea creates a clear and calm waters that made Belize snorkeling ideal. Most of the area The Bog Snorkeling inside the reef is less than 20 feet deep, and with crystal clear water it makes an outstanding natural aquarium that you can take part of. In just 6-10 feet of water you'll find an amazing diversity of marine life. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve of Belize Barrier Reef is one of the most popular snorkeling spots, about 10 miles north of Caye Caulker. The Hol Chan is a natural cut in the reef, about 25-30 feet deep. A diverse amount of marine life can be found there, it is strictly monitored since this ecosystem is home of...
Welcome To The Best Snorkeling Spot
... for themselves. This snorkeling spot is a National Geographic adventure. Deadman's Reef Bahamas While Paradise Cove has the direct access towards the Deadman's Reef, you can still access the reef by swimming or by boat. Either way, your efforts will pay off as you dive The Bog Snorkeling into the shallow depths that hold the colorful and vibrant life within Deadman's Reef. Belize Barrier Reef Belize The second largest reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is also one of the most popular Belize snorkeling destinations. The reef's protection from the turbulent sea creates clear and calm water that simulates an outstanding natural aquarium that you can take part of. The Los Arcos and Tres Marietas Banderas Bay, Mexico Banderas Bay offers two best site snorkeling: the Los Arcos and the Tres Marietas. These two natural preserves are a part of an underwater mountain range which peaks above the ocean's surface about 20 miles of the coast of Puerto Vallarta. Because they welcome the waters from the pacific more than...
Finding The Best Snorkeling Beaches
... 876-952-2566 Admission: Adult $3, Child (under 12) $1.50 Walter Fletcher Beach Also situated in Montego Bay, Walter Fletcher Beach also provides the friendliest among the best snorkeling beaches. Centrally located near the city's main attractions, the beach does get somewhat crowded. The extraordinarily calm waters and on-duty lifeguards make Walter Fletcher very popular for families with younger children, and the peaceful yet vibrant underwater life will excite every children. Gloucester Ave, Montego Bay, Jamaica 876-979-9447 Adult $2.30, Child (under 12) $1.15 Olowalu Turtle Reef Olowalu Turtle Reef in Maui, Hawaii is a National Geographic and vacation rolled into one. Okay it may not belong The Bog Snorkeling to the best snorkeling beaches category but there are awesome beaches within the vicinity of this great natural preserve. Why? Because you also need to let the children experience the tranquil life of nature...
Best Snorkeling Location
Olowalu Turtle Reef can be found in Maui. Oahu Oahu contains several exquisitely formed corals. Examples of such reefs would be on the North Shore at Haleiwa. In addition to these beautiful reefs, one can find Hanauma Bay off the coast where 450 diverse marine species makes their home. Kauai Kauai is famed for its lush vegetation, earning the name 'Garden Island'. The Garden Island is also the home to more sandy beaches than any major island in the chain. Sea caves and half submerged waterfalls are its natural charms even casual snorkelers will be amazed. Caribbean The British Virgin Islands Home to a dozen historical shipwrecks, the waters of the island chain St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas was once pirate infested. Now, hundreds of multicolored fishes makes this submerged ships their homes. Most of this wrecks became so much of an underwater beauty that snorkeling and sightseeing in this wrecks will let you see more than a dozen rotting wooden planks. Belize Belize Barrier Reef ...
Finding The Best in the Snorkeling World
Preserve is alive with schools of tame angelfish, touch-me-not puffer fish, butterfly fish, octopuses and even those giant fearful looking manta rays. Even with the flocking crowds of swimmers and strict sanctions, Molokini Crater lives the reputation as one of the best in snorkeling world. Belize Barrier Reef Belize The second largest reef in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef is also one of the best in snorkeling world. The reef's protection from the turbulent sea creates a clear and calm waters that made Belize Barrier Reef one of the best site snorkeling. Most of the area inside the reef is less than 20 feet deep, and with crystal clear water it makes an outstanding natural aquarium that you can take part of. In just 6-10 feet of water you'll find an amazing diversity of marine life. Olowalu Turtle Reef Maui, Hawaii Olowalu Turtle Reef in Maui The Bog Snorkeling is among the best in snorkeling...
Jamaica Montego Bay Snorkeling
... But for those who would like to do a bit more, head across the channel for the Coyoba, Seaworld and Royal Reefs experience. All these reefs are full of wildlife, including barjacks, blue and brown chromis, yellow-headed wrasses, and spotlight parrotfish. Just be sure your equipped will proper equipment and have some knowledge before you do your Montego Bay snorkeling. Runaway Bay is The Bog Snorkeling also the closest to shore that offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. And other sites, like Spanish Anchor and Shipwreck Reef and Canyon are outstanding Montego Bay snorkeling Probably the most astonishing sight would be the sunken city of Port Royale, which sank underwater after the earthquake of 1692. For those who don't know, Port Royale is one of those buccaneer towns where...
Snorkeling In Kauai
... condominiums and vacation homes, Poipu Kai Resort is undeniably one of the most beautiful accommodations in the island. It is bracketed by two beaches namely Brenecke on the west and Shipwreck on the east that are both prime site for snorkeling in Kauai. It can be simply accessed by a stroll The Bog Snorkeling through their tropical gardens. * Kiahuna Plantation Designed in the Hawaiian homestead style, Kiahuna Plantation boasts of its tranquil gardens on a long white sandy beach. It has thirty- five manicured acres of lagoons, tropical foliage and lily ponds. It also gives that feeling of being in a picturesque underwater scene when having snorkeling in Kauai right at this spot. You would want to stay not just for a night as their lodgings are nestled on a serene stretch of a gorgeous shoreline. * Nihi Kai Villas Just 350 yards away from Brennecke Beach, Nihi Kai Villas is a spacious resort that makes it a paradise for snorkeling in Kauai. If you are searching for that ultimate relaxation moment,...
Snorkeling in Cozumel
... the splendid toadfish. Great is an understatement to describe what it is to go snorkeling in Cozumel. Its limestone shore is surrounded by temperate, crystal clear waters that range from striking turquoise to deep indigo. With that there are many The Bog Snorkeling spots in the island that is conducive for another thrilling splash escapade. * Chankaanab is ideal for those beginners who desire to go snorkeling in Cozumel. It is a must to head to the wonderful coral formations, stroll their one- of- a- kind botanical gardens, witness the dolphin show and visit the museum. * Santa Rosa is best for those who are in the intermediate level. It has a spectacular wall dive which is hands down popularity winner on the island. Hundreds of meters away is a good location for snorkeling in...