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O'Brien
and Michaelson:
Open Water Champions
The first-ever Connecticut Open Water Championship was held last Saturday June 30th at the Madison Surf Club. This championship was a huge success due in large part to Connecticut United States Masters which organized and conducted this event.
Approximately 80 CSI athletes attended the championship, and for most it was their first open water swim. The athletes quickly adapted to their new environment of sun, sand and waves and after a bit of trepidation warming up, were ready for the mile race to begin. The swimmers started in groups called "waves" five minutes apart and followed a course marked by buoys and led by kayaks. Other kayaks were positioned along the course to provide direction and assistance if needed.
There was no doubt as to the swimmers' enthusiasm. It was written all over their faces as they finished the mile course and ran 25 yards to the finish line. Not only did our athletes swim well, but they were proud to have tried a new swimming venue and to have successfully swum a mile in open water. Congratulations to every swimmer!
Taking top honors were Ben Michaelson, SOCO and Laura O'Brien, OMNI. Ben finished first overall with a time of 19 minutes 11 seconds and Laura finished second overall with a time of 19 minutes 23 seconds. Awards were presented for top three age group girls and boys as well.
Joining the CSI athletes were 79 CT Masters swimmers ranging in age from 19 to 75 years old. Many of these masters swimmers are veteran open water swimmers but others were new to open water. As Dave Parcell, Meet Director stated "Regardless of the age of the athlete, success is met by the achievement of personal goals."
All proceeds benefited the Shoreline Foundation Summer Camp Scholarships for needy children and Town of Madison Beach & Recreation Department.
Special thanks to Dave Parcells, Dave Lamberti, and CT USMS for making this event possible for Connecticut swimmers!