The 2022/23 season of the Open Water Swimming Series begun, with the Yara Burrup Classic on Saturday in Karratha. Dampier Foreshore was a treat, the weather and conditions were perfect over the weekend.
In the 2.5km, the swimmer who finished closest to the time of 43 minutes and 34 seconds won a prize of $50. Out of 19 swimmers, Rachel Oliver finished with a time of 42:49.6. Congratulations Rachel, who was the 5th fastest female swimmer in the event.
Once again, Swimming WA and OWS Series, dedicated the 5km event to O2 employee, Matthew Porter by renaming it; O2 Marine Matthew Porter 5km Race. Matthew Porter tragically passed away last year at Hearsons Cover. The swimming community joined us in a minute of silence prior to the race.
The fastest swimmer in the O2 Marine Matthew Porter 5km Race was Kristian Seidl with a time of 55:06.0 and fastest female was Jamie Traeger, who touched with a time of 1:04:40.9. Special thanks to City of Karratha Councilor, CR Gillian Furlong for handing out all the medals.
Swimming WA would like to thank Yara Pilbara, the City of Karratha and O2 Marine for their support and generosity ensuring events such as today are successful, and the community can thrive.
Additionally, we would like to thank all the volunteers, especially our technical officials; Steve Jones and Mark Foster. Mark Bradley for starting races and Troy Webster who was our MC, both from Yara Pilbara. Jodie Cawthray and Chris Hainsworth from Dampier Surf Life Saving Club, helped with storing equipment and water safety/set up. Nigel Kroonstuiver from Karratha Amateur Swimming Club for assisting with the sausage sizzle, providing marquees, and organising volunteers. Chris Lane from O2 Marine provided a safety boat. There were many more volunteers on the day who gave up their time to help bring to life such a great event. Thank you!
Yara Burrup Classic is only the start to what will be another awesome season of open water swimming. The season is filled with many opportunities to #challengeyourself.
Look out Leighton! OWS Series is coming to you for round 2 on Saturday, 29 October. For more information on OWS Series Round 2: Leighton, click here. #comeswimwithus.
For the full results from OWS Series Round 1: Yara Burrup Classic, click here.
