Swimmers race against iconic backdrop
Sydneysiders love their harbour: the open blue waters, the scenic coves, and of course certain landmarks – one Meccano coathanger and that pointy sail building – the names of which may only be mentioned in conjunction with the word ‘iconic’. This Sunday (14th March), swimmers and spectators alike will be out in force to enjoy the lot of them as the ninth annual Sydney Harbour Swim Classic hits the water.
The races all start at the Man O’ War steps next to the Opera House, last minute registration is from 7.15 - 8.30 and the races begin at 9 in the morning. Get more details at
http://www.sydneyharbourswim.com/. There are two races (1 km and 2 km) for the public, preceded by a charity sprint swim in which past and present Olympians and other celebrities will race to raise money for their favourite charities.
The NSW Parks and Wildlife Service and the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change are partnering with the event to raise awareness of the fact that Melbourne’s Phillip Island isn’t the only place in Australia where fairy penguins make their home. Sydney Harbour’s sole remaining penguin colony is at Manly Point; at a mercifully safe distance from the onslaught of Harbour Classic swimmers.
Members of the public also have the option of registering their swim as a fundraiser for the charity of their choice. So even if you’re no great swimmer, you can always get in on the act by sponsoring a friend, or just go along to enjoy the spectacle as the competitors take to the water – against that iconic backdrop, of course.
Australia’s first state is home to some of the country’s most beautiful treasures. The Great Dividing Range, like a gigantic backbone, supports snowfields to the south and majestic rainforests to the north, and separates the red sandhills from the picturesque surf beaches of the Pacific.