Ama, the Pearl Diving Mermaid of Japan

I've always marveled at tales of the Ama, the Japanese women who specialized in diving for shellfish.  These fascinating women swam pretty much naked and were able to make a living and gain independence, mainly due to their superior ability to tolerate cold and to hold their breath for long periods of time.  Found a fascinating blog with pictures of these beautiful women here.

The space beneath

Ever since 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, I've wondered what has crossed the mind of every open water swimmer: what lies beneath.

Not that Coney Island is the deep sea.  The first CIBBOWS years didn't prevent us from telling our own salty tales about the giant squid.

Bonaire they take the Kraken quite seriously, as a Dutch protectorate.  I had a lot of time during a long swim to thing too long about it. It seems now we are getting some answers.