Open Water young guns relish camp opportunity

Australia’s next generation of Open Water swimming stars gathered on the Sunshine Coast this past weekend as part of Swimming Australia’s 2023 National Open Water Development Camp.

A group of 16 athletes and five coaches converged on the coast for the four-day training camp, with selection based on results from the 2023 Open Water Championships in Busselton in January.

All sessions were conducted in an open water environment, with a significant focus on skill development including pack swimming, drafting, navigation, pacing strategies and buoy turns.

In addition to the water sessions, athletes and coaches participated in a number of important education sessions across nutrition, physical preparation, integrity and a special presentation from Australia’s maiden marathon swimming Olympic medallist, Kareena Lee.

Head Coach Mel Tantrum said it was a valuable learning experience for all involved.

“The National Open Water Development Camp brings together Australia’s best junior athletes and their coaches to collaborate, challenge, and innovate,” Tantrum said.

“The depth emerging in our open water pathways is incredibly exciting and it was really pleasing to see this committed group of athletes and coaches come together to work towards a common goal.”

“Kareena has laid an amazing platform for those athletes coming through with her medal in Tokyo and their drive to experience that same success is tangible.”

“There are a number of important racing opportunities ahead of this group in the coming years so any opportunity to come together and fine tune critical skills will further enhance their ability to deliver when it matters most in the competition environment.”