Swimming WA is thrilled to announce that two Western Australian athletes, Xavier Collins (Westside Christchurch, c: Jon Harrison) and Lucas Fackerell (Breakers, c: Harry Clark), have earned spots on the Australian team for the upcoming World Aquatics Open Water Swimming Junior World Championships in Italy this September.
Collins will be competing in the 10km event, while Fackerell will be competing in the 7.5km event. Both athletes have earned their spots on the Australian team after showing remarkable performances at last week’s Australian Open Water Championships.
Mel Tantrum, who will lead the team as Head Coach, shared her excitement, stating, "It is fantastic that two WA athletes have been selected... It is a testament to the hard work that both Xavier and Lucas and their coaches Jon and Harry put in each and every day."
Reflecting on their performances at the Australian Open Water Championships, Tantrum stated, "Both Xavier and Lucas showed grit and determination in their respective races, taking charge from the beginning and establishing themselves in the lead pack. Both were able to maintain their fast pace for the duration of the swim and finish well. This is due to a strong work ethic in training and a commitment to do in training what many others don't or won't do.”
"I would expect both boys to be aiming for top 8 finishes in Alghero, matching it with the big guns from Italy, Hungary, France, the UK, and the US." Tantrum highlighted the Championships as a crucial stepping stone for these young athletes towards future international competitions.
Tantrum mentioned the unique open water swimming opportunities in Western Australia, including the diverse range of events such as the Swimming WA Open Water Swimming Series, the Rottnest Channel Swim, Port to Pub, and many more. WA's success in open water swimming is attributed to the perfect climate and conditions along the coastline. This fosters a pathway from mass participation swims to the elite level.
The selection of Collins and Fackerell is an incredible achievement and marks the next wave of athletes who will be in the frame for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
