Report by Kristen Leydon
On a brilliant sunny late Spring Saturday 24 November 2012, the Tuggeranong Vikings triumphed in the annual RSL 1km Ramp to Ramp swim in Lake Albert, Wagga Wagga.
In the 40-49 female category Nicolee Martin took gold and Kristen Leydon bronze from seven swimmers in their category, with 27 swimmers taking part overall. The inscription on the medals states quite an appropriate mantra “health, training, strength, power, speed, dedication”.
It was an easy, chatty drive to Wagga Wagga, the weather a hot 32 degrees and the water a surprisingly comfortable temperature – wetsuits were definitely not needed. The ladies had a quick swim just after they arrived to acclimatise before a James Bond style fast rib ride over to the start. All that was missing was the 007 theme music!
The starting group huddled surrounded by a posey of life guards on skis and rib boats. Nicolee started strong and fast and held her lead for the entire race finishing in 15:41. Kristen started out at a steady pace and overtook a few swimmers that lost steam after an early sprint and then held her place until the finish.
Overall it was a very enjoyable and successful day trip event for the Viking open water swimmers. Of course there was a celebratory lunch following the medal presentation, and next year there may be a necessary visit to the wineries!
Full results are available.
