Hobsons Bay to host top open-water swim event

Stephanie Toplis (Yarraville Swimming Club) and Tim Dowling (Williamstown Mussels). Picture: Kristian Scott

In a first for Melbourne’s west, Victoria’s peak open-water swimming event will be held at Williamstown beach in December.

Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club, Altona Swimming Club and Swimming Victoria have joined forces to host the Victorian Open Water Championships and the Williamstown Open Water (WOW) Challenge.

More than 1000 people, including interstate and international entrants, are expected to swim in what is the state’s only FINA-sanctioned open-water event.

A partnership has been established with Triathlon Victoria (TV), providing discounted priority access to TV members.

“We’re excited by the partnership opportunities with the open-water championships and expect a significant number of our members to take part” said Grant Cosgriff, TV’s executive director.

Entrants in the five and 10-kilometre championship events, open only to Swimming Victoria members, will have the opportunity to post qualifying times for the national swimming championships and Olympic selection. To register, visit the Williamstown SLSC website.

Local businesses interested in becoming a sponsor should email: info@williamstownslsc.org.au