Swimming: Teenager in open water win

Christchurch teenager Scott Shepherd took out his first national open water swim title yesterday, winning the 10km event at Lake Rotoma near Rotorua.

The 19-year-old took full advantage of the absence of defending champion and training partner Carl Gordon, who was sidelined with illness.

Shepherd, 10th at the world championships in Hawaii last year, cleared out from talented North Harbour swimmer Kate Brookes-Peterson on the sixth and final lap.

He clocked 2h 14m 47s for the victory, 17 minutes outside his time set in Hawaii.

His challenge with Gordon was expected to be a highlight, but the champion withdrew with a heavy cold and virus.

He is unlikely to be a starter in today's 5km swim.

Brookes-Peterson, the Oceania Games representative, dominated the women's competition, finishing in 2h 16m 50s, more than 12 minutes ahead of her nearest rival, Parnell's Rebecca Nesbut, who recorded 2h 29m 14s.

More than 30 swimmers have entered the 5km event.