Sea swimmers line up for annual race

Given the recent hot weather, competitors in the annual Hipkins Cup sea swim may be tempted to forgo wetsuits this year.

However, despite expected higher water temperatures, organisers recommend that competitors in the popular race from Rarangi to White’s Bay still don suits.

The event, taking place on Sunday, January 21, starts from the carpark around 200m north of the Rarangi Fire Station.

From there, swimmers head for the far side of Whites Bay, completing a zig-zag into the beach to finish the race. The distance is approximately 2.5km, depending on currents and the chosen path of competitors. Last year 19 competitors made the start line with organisers hoping for similar numbers in 2024.

In 2023, ultra-distance swimmer George Glover took home the cup, his second consecutive victory, coming home in 28 minutes 18 seconds. He was pushed all the way to the finish by second-placegetter Chris Smithers.

Third was multisport coach Mark Grammer, in a time of 31.41, with Georgie Kydd, the first female home, fourth in 32.24.

Registrations will be taken on the day at the start area from 10.15am to 10.45am with a cost of $10 per swimmer.

All swimmers must wear a hi-vis swimming cap or Rash Top (pink, orange, yellow, or bright green). Those under the age of 16 will need to be signed in by a parent or guardian. Race briefing begins at 10.50am and the race starts at 11am.

Following the race will be a prize giving and sausage sizzle.  Any questions contact Brendon Ferguson brendon@rarangislsc.org.nz