Seven fish Eagle Master Swimmers participated in the 34th South African Masters National Swimming Championship at Hillcrest Pool in Pretoria from 14 – 17 March 2018. This year 474 swimmers from 27 clubs took part and there were even some international swimmers from Poland and the UK. The Fish Eagle Masters did exceptionally well for such a small club. This year they scooped up 18 medals.
Medals for the swimming pool events: Pippy Bishop (36) won 1 silver and 2 bronze, Lanie Farrelly (56) won 1 silver and 3 bronze, Mike McDonald (73) won 1 bronze, Tanya Osborne (45) won 1 gold, 4 silver and 1 bonze and Monique Roos (35) won 1 bronze.
New Fish Eagle member and first time National Championship swimmer Andre Weideman (47) came out pumping in his free style events but sadly missed a medal by milliseconds. Our veteran swimmer Judy Dixon (77) was once again a big inspiration to the team with her positive and determined attitude.
The open water swim on Sunday, 18th March was held at Ebotse (C R Swart) dam in Benoni in miserable and windy conditions. After a long and tiring 4 days of swimming the swimmers braved the cold and choppy water. Pippy Bishop (gold), Judy Dixon (silver), Lanie Farrelly and Andre Weideman swam the 1km race. Tanya Osborne (silver) swam the 3km race and was also the second overall lady to finish the race. This year Tanya was awarded South African Master Colours for open water swimming. A fantastic achievement and the Fish Eagles are very proud of their team mate.
Not only did the team make an impression in the water but the sponsored gear had other teams looking on with envy. The colourful costumes especially drew a great deal of complimentary comments especially during the relay races.
Next year the Nationals will be held in Port Elizabeth from 20th – 24th March 2019 and we encourage interested swimmers to contact Judy Dixon on 072-3906667 to join in this event that is not just about winning but about fitness, friendship, sportsmanship, team spirit and most of all – fun.
Fish Eagles Masters Swimming 