Swimmers Defy Vanuatu Shark Threat

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday July 28, 2005

By MIKE GANDON

A FATAL shark attack two days before the event did not deter competitors including a group of Wollongong Ocean Swimmers from taking part in the fourth annual Vanuatu Ocean Swim at Port Vila late last month.

Seven-year-old Alysha Margaret Webster from New Zealand was on holiday and swimming off a beach on Malekula Island in the north of the Pacific island group when the attack occurred.

Mangerton ocean swimmer Julie Clarke said the international ocean swim went ahead and no-one withdrew from the event.

"We were really sorry to hear what happened and it did make things a bit jittery," she added.

Clarke came second in the 3.2km swim 40-49 years women's division, with Hilary Tardif, of Figtree, coming third in the same category.

Figtree's Jasmin Trigg, competing over 1.5km, came third in 14-19 years and third female overall.

In his first ocean swim, Phil Dunn, of Mangerton, finished third in the 1.5km 50-59 years men's division.

Bonnie Frankcom, of Figtree, came fourth in the under 20 female division.

"All swimmers were more than pleased with their times and results and have vowed to tackle the swim again next year," Clarke said.

More than 140 swimmers from Fiji, Vanuatu, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Australia and the United States competed.

Clarke and Dunn will both compete in the 3.5km Mana Island swim in Fiji next month.

The new NSW ocean swim series has been drafted and there appear to be some great swims planned for this season, with many events catering for beginners to seasoned swimmers.

Those interested in joining Wollongong Ocean Swimmers are invited to a meeting at Towradgi Rock Pool at 11am on Sunday.

For further enquiries, phone 4229 2534 or visit www.oceanswims.com