The shores of Leighton Beach came alive on Saturday, 21 October, as the Open Water Swimming (OWS) Series officially kicked off. This event, made possible through the generous support of the City of Fremantle, saw over 500 determined participants, embarking on their chosen distance, ranging from 500m to an impressive 7.5km. For elite swimmers, this event had on offer the 7.5km State Championships.
In the 7.5km Championships event, the spotlight shone on open water sensation Kyle Lee (North Coast, c: Ian Mills), who did not disappoint. Lee clinched the gold in a remarkable time of just under one hour and thirty minutes. Not to be outdone, Jack Wilson (North Coast, c: Ian Mills) followed closely behind to secure the second position. The podium was completed by the tenacious Robert Bonsall (North Coast, c: Ian Mills), rounding out the top three in this gruelling race.
In the women's category, it was Bianca Monaco (Westside Christchurch, c: Jon Harrison) who came out on top, clocking in at an impressive 1 hour, 40 minutes, and 31.5 seconds. Just a mere three minutes later, North Coast's Rosie Wilson (c: Ian Mills) and Josie Page (Westside Christchurch, c: Jon Harrison) secured the silver and bronze medals.
What's truly exciting is the participation of Swimming WA clubs eager to win the Club Premiership awards. The winners will be determined based on the cumulative results of the first three state rounds held at Leighton, Bunbury, and Coogee. Two club premiership awards are up for grabs: the Jeanette Bailey Premiership Cup and The Kevin Holtom Shield. The current tally of club points will be announced soon.
Swimming WA expresses its gratitude to the City of Fremantle for their support and generosity, which played a pivotal role in ensuring the event's success. Furthermore, a thank you is extended to Wase Timing, RD Events, HMP, Fremantle Surf Life Saving Club, and Riverton Aquanauts Swim Club, whose assistance throughout the day was invaluable.
It's essential to acknowledge the selfless volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to ensure the smooth running of this event. Special appreciation goes out to our technical officials: Steve Hill, Steve Jones, Brie Runeckles, Mark Foster, Sarita Bennett, Lois Runeckles, Gregory Wilson, Ray Pearce, Stella Carrara, Debra Doody, and Kylie Baker, whose tireless efforts contributed to the event's success.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to Sports Centre and SwimTek for their support in providing the "closest to the pin" prizes, adding an exciting element to the competition.
Salt Diaries is the official series photographer and capturing all the action throughout the day. For those eager to check out the photos, click here.
For more detailed results and additional information, please visit the official Open Water Swimming website at openwaterswimming.com.au.
