More than 200 swimmers faced choppy and challenging ocean conditions in the 54th Annual Coronado Roughwater Swim yesterday at Center Beach.
"The ocean conditions made it a tough race," said Jim Walsh, Coronado Aquatics Club President. "But the athletes made a great go of the race that benefitted both the Coronado Aquatics Club and the Coronado Navy Swim Association."
A moderate southwest wind produced small waves that hit swimmers head on throughout two thirds of the one-mile ocean race, one of the longest continuously held roughwater ocean swims in the U.S.
In addition to the mile division, younger swimmers competed in 250-yard, 400-yard and half-mile races.
"It wasn't until they had that last leg that the athletes were swimming downwind and with the strong current," said Coronado Aquatics Club Head Coach Randy Burgess. "But I'm proud of the way all the youth entrants persevered."
Coronado Lifeguards were on hand to monitor the race.
"I had a blast," said Jack Walsh, a Coronado High School sophomore and water polo player who placed first in the half-mile division. "It was a great training swim to get me ready for the upcoming water polo season."
The Coronado Navy Swim Association is a year-round competitive swim team offering professional coaching and instruction for all ages and abilities. The goal of the team is to provide members with opportunities to improve swimming skills and achieve success at every level, from novice to international competitor.
The Coronado Aquatics Club has enjoyed much success over its history. Former members include many college scholarship water polo players, including players who have earned spots on the U.S. National and Olympic teams, where there are currently an unprecedented four players from Coronado.
Full race results are forthcoming.
