Swimmers test course of challenge

Swimmers are briefed before the Challenge Wanaka Swim the Course event in Wanaka yesterday. Photos by Kevin Gingell-Kent and Marjorie Cook.

The Challenge Wanaka Swim the Course event yesterday attracted at least 265 swimmers, believed to be the largest field to have participated in the fun swim in the event's six-year history.

Mark Watson, of Wanaka, completes the course yesterday.

The annual Swim the Course is held in Lake Wanaka three days before the Challenge Wanaka race, giving triathletes their first chance to swim the official course while supervised and giving organisers a chance to test their systems.

The first swimmer to complete one lap (1.9km) was Robert Huisman of Waianiwa, Southland, who completed it in about 23 minutes.

A large contingent of Wanaka Swimming Club members took part. Tane Duncan (16) was the first club member home, close behind Huisman.

On your marks

Saturday's Challenge Wanaka swim leg starts from the lakefront opposite Pembroke Park. The starting times are:

Challenge Wanaka individuals (about 240 swimmers): 6.30am

Lake Wanaka Half individuals (about 440 swimmers): 7.35am

Lake Wanaka Half teams (about 150 swimmers): 7.50amChallenge Wanaka teams (about 45 swimmers): 7.55am.

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