Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic An Anticipated Event

The Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic continues to grow as an important athletic and social event. It is a yearly, open ocean fun race extending 2.2 kilometers from Wategos Beach to the iconic Byron Bay Surf Club on Main Beach in town. 2011 will be the 24th organization of the event that was first launched in 1988. From modest beginnings as a local charity function, the swim has expanded year after year to build the solid momentum it enjoys today.

Byron Bay is a small but vibrant town with some 6,000 residents on the far north coast of New South Wales (NSW). It gained prominence during the 1960s when many hippies dropped out of the mainstream to establish an alternative lifestyle in the region. The place has developed an easygoing approach to life that is unique, even by Australian laidback standards.

The swim now attracts a large field of about 1700 enthusiasts, including many high profile athletes from around Australia and overseas. Cash prizes are awarded to the winners and place getters in both male and female groupings.

The first race was launched back in 1988 with about 100 brave souls entering to win. Today, the race is a major event on many sporting calendars. At least 1,700 contestants are anticipated to attend in 2011. Given the big swarm of entrants, they are launched on a staggered start. Surprisingly, the elite contestants are started last.

Wategos is one of the most picturesque beaches in the region and makes an ideal starting point. Some of the most expensive real estate and finest homes along the north coast of New South Wales overlook the beach. Its shore has a large green, picnic area that forms a perfect spot for swimmers to meet and complete their final check-in before a 10am start.

Participants are requested to register online in advance of the event. Entrance forms are available at the race website. There is a formal deadline for official registrations. People who miss that cut-off date may join the swim but their time will not be recorded. Race organizers are at Wategos from at least 7am on race day to check-in pre-registered swimmers. The race kicks-off at 10am.

In summary, the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic is held on the first Sunday every May. All proceeds go to a range of local swim organizations and the rest is directed to charities associated with various water sports and activities. A large contingent of lifeguards and volunteers patrol the course on boards and boats to handle any unexpected eventualities. Paramedics and ambulance officers are on stand-by at Main Beach. The event has an unblemished safety record.

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