Wreck2Reef swimmers to take the plunge

HUNDREDS of swimmers will take to the water next weekend as Wreck2Reef returns to Indented Head on February 8.

As the Indented Head Yacht Club’s biggest annual fundraiser, event organisers are hoping to beat last year’s record of more than 400 participants.

Those headed into the water can choose from five distances – the 2.5km open water swim, 300-metre dash, 1.2km open water, 800-metre novice and the 600-metre Salty Bitches Social Swim.

To encourage more participants and enhance the experience, the Yellow People Swim has been rebranded to the Salty Bitches Salty Swim.

The rebranding of the category hopes to draw more participants from the local swimming group, who have become members of the yacht club and a big part of the annual event.

Salty Bitches founder Sarah Fenton said the impact of going for a swim each day is a legacy she never planned on creating, but she loves the impact managing her own mental and physical health has had on so many.

“The Salty Bitches has changed lives, brought people together and created a community for people to feel connected.

“Swimming, fitness and mental health was the beginning, but the benefits are far greater than we knew.”

The social swim is a non-competitive event and participants can swim with any stroke they want or bring a paddle board, kick board, body board or a pool noodle.

Race director Andrew Dix said the Indented Head Yacht Club is an active sports organisation with daily swimming throughout the year and sailing on the weekends.

“The Wreck2Reef Open Water Swim, together with the Sail Bellarine regatta, showcases our vibrant community spirit.

“Our 200 plus members are excited to participate and volunteer in support of this event.”

Funds raised from the event go towards supporting the Yacht Club’s Learn2Sail program.

To register and for more information, head to ihyc.com.au/wreck-2-reef-event