Olympians shine at Lorne Pier to Pub

MORE than 5,000 swimmers hit the water for this year’s Lorne Pier to Pub.

The 1.2km open water swim from the Lorne Pier to the finish line outside the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club again drew thousands of spectators and athletes of all ages and swim levels to the coastal town despite a Total Fire Ban stretching across Victoria.

In the elite Superfish category, which took place earlier today (Saturday, January 10), Olympic gold medallist Lani Pallister claimed her seventh consecutive victory in the women’s race, touching home in 12:50 in the 46th edition of the race.

Fellow Olympian Sam Short took top honours in the men’s division with an impressive time of 11:52.

Short dethroned reigning champion Nick Sloman, who claimed second place with a strong finish in 12:24, as Dakoda Mathers followed suit in the women’s event, taking second in 13:32.

William Petric rounded out the podium in the men’s Superfish race, claiming third place in 12:39.

Meanwhile, Sophie Jacka delivered an impressive double effort. After taking second place in the female junior (12–17) race, she returned to the water to finish third in the women’s event with a time of 14:12.

The Pier to Pub was delivered by more than 400 volunteers from the Lorne SLSC and local community, working across land, water and air to ensure a safe and successful day.

Men’s Podium:

• 1st – Sam Short – 11:52
• 2nd – Nick Sloman – 12:24
• 3rd – William Petric – 12:39

Women’s Podium:

• 1st – Lani Pallister – 12:50
• 2nd – Dakoda Mathers – 13:32
• 3rd – Sophie Jacka – 14:12