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Clare Payne, Mick Bransby, and Chad Schneider watched as the swell slowly
got bigger and bigger after arriving at Terrigal Beach. Chad had a warm up
swim in the 1km event, which provided a welcomed alteration in the course for the 3/5km event. The back
stretch was shortened, as the directly 'in your face' chop made that leg of the swim challenging enough.
The surprise of the day was the attendance of Michael Hickson, who entered his
first ocean swim and placed a very respectable 5th place in the 12 and over
category of the 1km swim. Well done Michael, we hope to see you at a few more swims throughout the season.
The main event provided the challenge we have been putting the hard work in for.
Mick ended a fantastic week of healthy (dry) living, early nights, and good workouts
with a 3rd place showing in the 40+ age group. Improving from a difficult swim
in Penrith, Mick felt good the whole way and was heard saying he had more in
the tank at the end. Keep up the good work, Mick; you're on a roll now.
Clare brought home her second medal of the season in as many swims taking a silver
in the 22 to 30 age group. Improving her time over the 5km distance from a 1:22 to
1:15. Definitely feeling more comfortable in the sea than in an unnatural rowing
regatta.
Chad also improved on a 1:14 in Penrith to a 1:08 personal best over the 5km distance.
The 22 to 30 age category was an interesting one pitting the 30 year old against
the young and spritely Michael Ormsby of Malabar. "I couldn't think of a better
person to come second place to" was quoted at the corner seafood
restaurant as the whole group refueled after the event.
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