Far North Coast Zone Swimming Carnival

Above: Grafton’s secret weapon David Moon competes in the 50 metre Butterfly event

Lynne Mowbray Almost 100 swimmers took part in last weekend’s Far North Coast swimming carnival on Saturday, at the Grafton pool. Competitors travelled from Nerang, Southport, Twin Towns, Lismore, Ballina, and Bellingen and of course Grafton, to compete in the event. Grafton District Services Club [GDSC] Swimming Club president Steve Donnelly said that although the carnival is competitive, it still gives swimmers of all capabilities a chance to get in the pool and have a go. “Age is no barrier for this event; there’s swimmers from 20 to 83 taking part,” Mr Donnelly said. “Our clubs oldest swimmer is Max Kroehnert, who is 81,” he said. GDSC Swimming Club secretary/publicity officer Toni Ensby said that the championship event consisted of both Championship races and handicap races, to give all swimmers a chance. “We have both 50 metre and 30 metre handicap races,” Ms Ensby said. “These races are recognised more and have more valuable prizes than the Championship events, as it’s very difficult to swim to a handicap time. “Prior to the event, swimmers have to nominate the time it will take them to swim the designated distance, so it’s harder to achieve,” she said. Mr Donnelly said that the GDSC Swimming Club which started in 1972 currently has around 35 members and is always looking for more. “The club is very social and we have a lot of fun,” said Mr Donnelly. “To be a GDSC Swimming Club member, you have to be over 18 and be a member of the GDSC and don’t take it all too seriously,” he said. For more information about the GDSC Swimming Club contact Toni Ensby 6642 5886.