Gorge closure doesn't affect Dannevirke swim meet

Members of the Dannevirke Amateur Swimming Club poolside during Sunday's swim meet.

Fears the closure of the Manawatu Gorge would affect numbers taking part in the Dannevirke Swimming Club's annual carnival last Sunday were unfounded.

"Clubs from around New Zealand were invited to come and compete and initially we were worried the gorge closure could mean we would have insufficient swimmers to hold the event," club official Michelle Mitchell said.

Dannevirke Amateur Swimming Club competitors, Tom Brown, left, Rebecca Mortensen and Skylah Marshall. All three are from Palmerston North, but swim for Dannevirke. Photo / Christine McKay

"However, the response was awesome and we had swimmers from Upper Hutt, Raumati, Carterton, Napier, Central Hawke's Bay and from multiple clubs from the Manawatu."

The day was a great success, with the youngest swimmer competing just five years old, while the oldest was 21.

Cash prizes were awarded to the winner of each age group, with total points determining the winners.

Dannevirke Swimming Club member Cam Gillespie at the start of the 50 metre backstroke heat. He took first place. Photo / Christine McKay

"Currently Dannevirke Swimming Club has a number of members who live in Palmerston North, and even a few from the Wairarapa," Mitchell said.

"We have a small number of swimmers who live in Dannevirke and we really want to build up these numbers. If anyone is keen to give racing a go, they do not have to be the next Lauren Boyle - they just need to love what they do."

Timekeepers concentrate at the Dannevirke swim meet at AMP Wai Splash on Sunday afternoon. Photo / Christine McKay

Swim meets are held regularly all over New Zealand and the next meet Dannevirke swimmers are focusing on is the Wellington Regional Winter Championships, with a number of swimmers who have already qualified to compete.

* If you are interested in joining the Dannevirke Swimming Club, contact Michelle Mitchell on 06 374-1855.