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RECORD numbers of competitors hit the cold and calm waters
off Newlyn Green last Friday as they swam the 1,300 metres to
Jubilee Pool slip.
The race, now in its 10th year, is organised by Nick Brooks
and raises money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Mr Brooks said: "We had 320 swimmers, compared to 220 last
year. We don't yet know the final total, but we would have
raised more than £1,000.
"The conditions were perfect considering the terrible summer
we've had. The sky was blue, the sun was shining, we had an off
shore wind, a perfect tide and a flat sea. We couldn't have
wished for better weather."
Swimmers ranged from aged seven and eight, to almost 70 and
were joined by Penwith's lifeguard dog, Bilbo, who swam for the
second year running.
Competitors swim parallel with the Penzance promenade from
Newlyn Green to the Jubilee Pool slip, approximately 1,300
metres, (1,100 metres for under 12s).
Mr Brooks said the event has grown in popularity, and now
attracts an excellent standard of entrants.
"I think the Olympics and the introduction of the open water
swimming event may have encouraged people to join in and to
watch. The promenade was packed with people," said Mr
Brooks.
"This year the swim attracted elite London triathletes Neil
Eddy and Sam Herridge, both winning their respective
categories. However, the record of 15.32 set in 2006 by local
lifeguard/solicitor Ben May remains intact."
But the family atmosphere still remains, with three
generations even taking part from one family.
Christine Thomas, daughters Tamsin and Sasha, and
grand-daughter Imogen, all joined in.
All under 12s received a medal for taking part, which were
presented afterwards in the Yacht Inn, along with other awards
categories.
Organisers are grateful to all sponsors, especially Peter
George at the Yacht Inn, as well as helpers at registration and
the race's finish, the RNLI, Penzance Canoe Club and other
boats contributing to the safety cover.
For a £6 entry fee, swimmers received an event T-shirt, but
due to the record numbers of entrants, the 260 printed did not
go round everyone.
Mr Brooks said: "The organisers were overwhelmed with the
amount of competitors and will ensure that there will be enough
of the much sought after T-shirts to go around next year."
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN
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