General News
7 March, 2025
Early mornings for Master swimmers
WHEN it comes to sheer determination and stamina, members of the Warrnambool Masters Swim Club have it in spades.
Early morning training sessions at Warrnambool’s AquaZone pool continue to attract a large number of swimmers of all ages and abilities.
“Warrnambool has one of the largest regional masters swimming clubs in Victoria,” member Marie Bird said.
“The club has been operating for more than 35 years and continues to attract new members of all abilities who swim for fun and fitness.
“While most swim for fun and fitness, some of our members also compete in state and national championships and many complete in open water swims especially those in the Shipwreck Coast swim series.”
The early morning sessions start at 6am on Wednesday and Friday while for those who prefer to hit the water of an evening, sessions run from 6pm each Tuesday and Thursday – along with 9am sessions every Wednesday and Sunday.
The club has Masters-accredited coaches on the pool deck providing a program and assisting swimmers keen on improving their stroke technique.
“There’s absolutely no pressure to complete a program or swim specific strokes,” Marie said.
“People can swim with us three times and then decide if Masters is the right fit for them before joining.”
Commonly known as the Warrnambool Whales, the group is looking forward to its 100 x 100m Challenge at AquaZone on Sunday, April 6.
The challenge invites participants to swim up to 100 laps of 100 metres (10 kilometres).
“This event is an individual challenge, so each participant can choose how far they wish to swim,” Marie said.
“This can be changed at any stage throughout the day if they want to increase or decrease their distance. Fins and pull buoys are allowed.”
With room in the outdoor pool for 50 participants, entry numbers are limited – with entries closing on April 4.
For more information about the Challenge, or to register interest, simply message warrwhales@outlook.com.
And for those interested in joining, a ‘re-start program’ will commence on Sunday, March 16.
This four-week program will be held from 9am-10am each Sunday from March 16 through until April 6.
“The re-start offers a safe and supported swim program for adults who want to return to swimming for fun and fitness,” Marie said.
“There will a dedicated lane for participants, and a coach on hand. This is limited to six swimmers and all must be able to swim.
“It’s not a learn-to-swim program but moreso a program for adults wanting to improve their confidence and technique.”
