Margaret River local and Swimming Women business owner Charlotte O'Beirne is looking forward to welcoming a new group of ocean swimmers along with passionate regular beachgoers at the annual Margaret River Ocean Swim on January 21.
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Aimed at providing a fun and inclusive opportunity for swimmers of all ages and skill levels, the swim course is approximately 1km and will be monitored by local rescue groups.
“It is a great way for people who have never swum in a race environment to get a taste of what goes into it, including the preparation and training,” Ms O’Beirne said.
“There are families who just want to jump in the water and complete the swim as a group, or individuals wanting to test themselves in a competition setting without the intimidation of lining up in a huge race start.”
The race is supported by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the White Elephant Cafe, and race caps will be available to registered swim participants.
“Many people are drawn to the region for their love of the water, and the coast,” said Margaret River Recreation Centre Manager Dylan Brown.
This isn’t just about winning, it’s also about being able to tick an ocean swim course off your bucket list.
- Charlotte O'Beirne
“At the other end of the spectrum there are many people who missed the swimming bug when they were younger and are taking the sport up later in life.
“This swim is for all of those people to come together and challenge themselves in a supportive and safe setting in Gnarabup Bay.”
While line honours will be awarded to the first male and first female over the line not wearing a wetsuit or using swimming aids such as fins, Ms O’Beirne said swimmers were welcome to use any swimming equipment they would like to employ.
“Whatever your experience, you can use fins or suits or whatever else you need to help complete the course,” she said.
“This isn’t just about winning, it’s about accomplishing the swim and being able to tick an ocean swim course off your bucket list, whether it turns into more racing or remains a casual, annual fun event for you and the family.”
The 2017 Margaret River Ocean Swim is on Saturday January 21. Registrations will be taken on the day from 7am, at a cost of $20 per person (includes Ocean Swim cap) and racing starts at 8am. For more info visit swimmingwomen.com.au