More great results for Nelson swimmers in the 5km race from Wainui Bay across the harbour to Akaroa.
Luke Kelly followed up his win in Wellington with second place. Abbey Smale was in a sprint up the beach with the third-placed male to finish fourth overall – easily the first woman. (The featured photo shows Abbey with her Gold medal alongside overall male winner Sebastien Priscott)
Terry Bone had his best swim yet in the national series to finish sixth, winning his 45-49 age group.
In addition to Luke and Abbey’s overall medals, the 20 Nelson swimmers won five gold age group medals – Luke Kelly (M20-25), Abbey Smale (F15-19), Terry Bone (M45-49), Maggy Johnston (F65-69), Derek Eaton (M75-79); three silver medals – Steve Clements (M60-64), Dick Bennison (M65-59), Peter Gibbs (M70-74).
Nelson swimmers gained more medals in the 2km swim, with Chris Vincent placing third in M50-59 and Les Le Bas placing second in M70+. Pauline Shoemack took gold in F60-69 in the 750m swim and Dora Melo placed fourth in F9-10 in the 200m swim.
Photos by Mark Tantrum, click here
Nelson results, click here
Full results, click here
Story, click here
In an incredible achievement, Christina Harris completed the 20km swim to Rottnest Island off the coast of West Australia, finishing first in her 50-59 age group in a time of 7hours 17minutes