Our Lake Burley-Griffin delivered the goods today. We had flat easy conditions and enough cloud cover so glare was not a problem. The water temperature was very comfortable for most swimmers presenting perfect conditions for those challenging themselves with either distance or time.

The swimmers finish in reverse order to their starting time. The 500m event was won by Stefan Schulz in 9.15, however the second place getter, awarded the same time of 9.15 was the U13 girls champion, Abigail Adera. This was a great swim from such a young competitor. Though the 500m field was small they all put in a huge personal effort to complete this distance.

Our 2.5km event was the largest race with 52 finishers today. The standout performances were from Alan Lloyd and Sally Parker who both did under 40 minutes. There were many noteworthy performances from swimmers in all age groups but I have to give the “gutsiest swim” award to Nurari Merry, swimming in the Lake for the first time in the longest swim of her life, and accidentally doing an extra 500m while suffering from cramps and cold.

This race is all about self-transcendence and the example all the swimmers set is an inspiration to all those watching.

Our real heroes were the ones completing the 5km event which was won by Gavin Mahoney in 1.18.01. All the swimmers deserve mention but none more so than Geoff Llewellyn who was battling out there for 2.28.54 and is over 80 years old. Geoff has been a regular competitor in Sri Chinmoy events for more than 30 years. We all admire his ‘never give up’ attitude.

Thank you to the Canberra Canoe Club for their assistance with safety; to First Aid Australia for the reassuring presence, and to all the willing volunteers. But most importantly, thank you to You the swimmers for your cheerful and inspiring efforts.

Full results are published, and also a photo gallery from the race.

Congratulations

Amalendu - Race Director