Harbour swim given lifeline

The long-running Albany Harbour Swim will continue into its 19th year after the Albany Surf Life Saving Club stepped in to avoid risk of cancellation because of lack of support.

Close to 150 competitors are again expected to compete in the 4km open water swim across Princess Royal Harbour on Easter Saturday, the first of two swim events in the region over the weekend.

The SunSmart Southern Ocean Classic Mile hosted by the Denmark Surf Life Saving Club will again be held at Ocean Beach on Easter Sunday, with the two events attracting swimmers from across the State

Albany SLSC president Rob Mason said the club had provided water safety and support to swimmers for several years and wanted to ensure the event continued.

“We have seen the benefits of the event up-close, and felt it would be a shame for it not to continue,” he said.

“The Harbour Swim is a key part of the calendar for swimmers from around the State.”

The Harbour Swim is open to solo swimmers as well as duo and quad teams, racing from Princess Royal Sailing Club at 7.30am to the shore at the Albany Entertainment Centre.

Many swimmers will back up for the Southern Ocean Classic Mile, which begins at 10am on Sunday.