Open Water Swimming

Thanks Theresa, I didn't get a chance to post in afraid but I'm going to do it in the morning! Hope recovery is going well x

This does happen, positioning yourself is good idea but rolling start changes this anyway. Some people use a more assertive arm stroke or kick to ward off people getting too close but this can impact your rhythm. One option is to swim slight off the direct line between buoys as this will be where most are swimming. If panicky or to reposition goggles floating on back best. You can practise roll front back front in the pool.
I also practise swimming in a pool in a busy swim session. Or if you have friend practise overtaking each other close by and even get used to someone touching your foot leg arm etc. One technique I practise is breathing out of rhythm. Do not do this loads or hyperventilate/over breath,but if you go to breath and you have a person there hold your breath to the other side. I also breath every 4 or 3 but practise in the pool panicky breathing hold for 5 or every 2. I also give myself a Stiff 'you can do this' talking to ones self!' Actively trying to relax as I tend to tense up which makes swimming and breathlessness worse. Then getting my breathing and stroke back to rhythm.
People tend to pass you fairly quickly so whilst your calming yourself they will have passed and you can get back on track.
The best training is doing as much open water swimming as possible and asking to swim near friends!!
Ps as a small person I have started in mixed waves and frankly not enjoyed this part of it!!
It will be ok! And you will be so chuffed you did do it.
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You guys don't need me - you've given all the advice already! Like all the suggestions - particularly breaststroking a few strokes if necessary, and making sure you seed yourself correctly for the rolling start. The slower swimmers will be much more courteous and less aggressive! Kate's advice is brilliant.