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Tom Montgomery has recorded better times, but winning the Stanwell Park Ocean Challenge on Sunday was a very impressive feat considering the tough race conditions.
Event organiser Andrew Perrin said the 13th running of the annual 2.3-kilometre ocean swim from Coalcliff to Stanwell Park, was undoubtedly the toughest on record.
"It was the most challenging so far. It was very choppy and windy conditions," he said.
"The swimmers need to be commended for their efforts, as do the water safety team, as it was probably tougher being above the water than in it.
"Volunteers from Stanwell Park and Coalcliff surf life saving clubs earned their keep. They did a tremendous job looking after the swimmers."
Stanwell Park local Montgomery completed the swim in 31 minutes and three seconds, seven seconds ahead of Bulli swimmer Beau Wheeler, with Daniel St George a further two seconds behind.
Niamh Bourke was the first female in a time of 34min50sec. Grace Musgrove came second ahead of Jenny Whiteley, who won the 50-59 women's age group category.
"Jenny should be very happy with her showing. The two girls in front of her were in the 20-29 age group ... so she definitely did very well," Perrin said.
He also gave special praise to 87-year-old Gorgine Mackenzie-Hicks, who successfully completed her fourth swim.
"We have six categories but recent history is suggesting that we should have more categories next year as a lot of our swimmers are aged in their 60s and 70s. Gorgine I think is the only one who is aged over 80," Perrin said.
While numbers were down because of the unfavourable conditions and only 234 swimmers took part, Perrin was optimistic the turnout will be closer to 400 next year for the "Big Swim of the South".
"We've attracted entrants from as far as Port Macquarie in the past and I'm sure good weather will see more people turn out next year."