Some time ago I started and IANTD Advanced Recreational Trimix Course, but I put it on hold for the last six months due to family illness, work commitments etc getting in the way.
In the meantime, it became apparent that my neo suit wasn't going to let me anywhere near my valves, so I switched to membrane (you all know the saga of that by now
). However, I've still been really nervous about perfecting the art of the shutdown.
I spent last night in the pool with my Instructor nailing it and I'm dead chuffed that with a bit of kit tweaking and slackening of the waist harness, I've managed to reach all my valves and do the drill in the time expected of me.
I also practiced no-mask swimming, out-of-air scenarios (with and without a mask) and kit removal and replacement on the bottom.
I know that compared to doing shutdowns in a drysuit and thick gloves, it's probably a doddle doing them in the pool, but I'm feeling much happier about the whole thing now and more confident that I will be able to do them smoothly in full kit. Thanks to all the YDers who gave me encouragement and helpful tips and advice about them
Next week I'll be back in the pool but this time with my stage, followed by a trip to Capers to practice in my drysuit, which is likely to be on Friday 3 May.
This diving milarkey doesn't always come easily to me, but God loves a tryer and with the support of my Instructors Bob and Kev, and my YD mates, I'm sure I'll get there in the end.
I'll keep you posted!
Hxxx