Waikanae to Wainui

It was a ripper! The anaugural Waikanae to Wainui swim, a distance of 12 kms, in rough seas on Waitangi day was the brain-child of Murray Robertson as a fund-raisaer for the local surf lifesaving clubs who are heading to the Nationals. Tatapouri Sports Fishing Club, Air Gisborne, Jet Rescue and paddlers escorted, supported and encouraged the swimmers in what is to become an annual event for a special trophy. The contest may be developed to include others next year such as the Enterprise Swim Team and Tri Club.

Covering 12 kms through big seas in Just under 2 and a half hours was the winning Waikanae team of (L to R): Grant Bramwell, Andrew Lament, Steve Sheldrake and Rachel Anderson.

The start at Waikanae Beach at 7.30am. Right: The winners, Rachel, Steve, Grant & Andrew coming out of the surf at Wainui

The winners, Rachel, Steve, Grant & Andrew coming out of the surf at Wainui

Murray Robertson giving a running commentary as the swimmers emerge from the boiling surf. It was an emotional moment for Murray who presented the dolphin trophy the teams competed for and his young Wainui team pulled out all stops to come in second. Just a minute and a half behind Waikanae.

Centre: The plucky Wainui team of (L to R): Mark Muir, Matt Martin, Naomi Calder and Stephen Sutherland. This team contained two 16 year olds and did well to come a close second to the more mature and experienced Waikanae team.

Placed third was the Midway team of (L to R) : Marcus Forbes, Carl Newman, Heidi Walker and Heath Johnstone.

Out of the water and time for Dad to dig a hole. Grant Bramwell and daughters Analisa and Kendall.

Part of the large crowd who gathered at the Wainui Surf Club to watch the end of the swim.

The Waikanae B team of (L to R): Glen Anderson, Grant Fossill, Ryan Johnstone and Sarah Shaw

The Wainui B team of (L to R) : Lyall Evans, Jo Conder, Regan Russell and Justin Martin.

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The Gisborne Photo News

Vol 20 : February 1, 1995

Waikanae to Wainui