Channel Swimming Association versus Channel Swimming and Piloting Federation (CS & PF)

I have been researching al things English Channel Swimming, and am an aspirant. I understand that the Channel Swimming Association has been in existence since 1927, and I have received the official packet from the Channel Secretary. I am also reading more about the more recently formed CS&PF. Can anyone enlighten me on the differences in the 2 organizations, and what association an aspirant should lean toward? Thank you.
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I think there are more persons associated with the CS&PF who are actively involved in helping aspirants achieve their goals. They maintain a presence at Dover Harbor for swimmers training and also have a very informative (if you are willing to search through the archives) forum.
The CS&PF also keeps records for swims completed by both organizations... the CSA does not. The claim is (I believe) that they can't verify that CS&PF swims were done according to Channel Rules... which is a crock.
I think you can guess which way I lean......
...anything worth doing is worth overdoing.
...anything worth doing is worth overdoing.
"I never met a shark I didn't like"
Thanks to those who have commented on the Associations. It is giving me insight as an American outsider.
Good luck!
http://www.huberthouse.co.uk/index.html
Good luck in your search! It's just as exciting to make the plans as it is to have the plans. :-)
www.WaterGirl.co
AZ Open Water Swimming on Facebook
Happy swimming
As far as which organization is more helpful/better, I would just reiterate @david_barra in that it is most important to find a competant and helpful pilot! I went in July, and it was about 57-58 degrees, and I found was a great experience (the sunny day helped!)
www.darren-miller.com
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania U.S.A.
Interesting to see the comments suggesting you should choose the pilot and accept whichever organisation. When I last swam the Channel, I thought it would be really really interesting to check out their boats. Some pilots have new boats others are still using working fishing boats. Some are well appointed others much less so. We really do not know how well we will get on with the pilot (afterall, we will be swimming) , but our support crew will be much better placed if they have some comfort and shelter. They will then be able to take more care of you.