My rookie era: I’m learning to swim in the ocean, braving the waves and marine life

Claire Keenan plunges into the sea at Sydney’s Clovelly. ‘What I lack in distance, I have made up for in establishing an enjoyable routine,’ she says of ocean swimming. Photograph: Jessica Hromas/The Guardian

I’ve wanted to be an ocean swimmer ever since I moved to Sydney. The idea of getting out past the waves and braving the elements excited me. I would tell anyone who would listen: “Once I live closer to the beach, I’m going to be out there. Just you wait.”

I’ve lived walking distance to the beach for more than a year now. During this time, I’ve read a lot about ocean swimming: how swimmers overcame challenges or life-altering moments. I even listened to a podcast on how to face your fears in the ocean.