A Ripper Day: Rip Race held for third time

Olympian and second female Bronte Campbell (45.16) next to third male Cam Tregaskis (45.15) following their swims. Photos: JACQUI GARNSWORTHY

ALL 83 swimmers in Saturday’s 3.5km Rip Swim successfully made the journey from Point Nepean to Point Lonsdale’s main beach in 18-degree water, capping off a successful day on the water.

Saturday’s event was the ninth year of Rip Swims, but only the third time the “Rip Race” was held.

Rip Swim founder Grant Siedle said the day involved 65 swimmers spread across 12 groups taking part in the main crossing, but 18 swimmers were lined up for the race itself.

Five RHIBS boats, a large catamaran and 18 kayakers also accompanied the field for safety.

Melbourne residents Robbe Dilissen (40.59) and Mackenzie Hunter (43.29) were the first male and females to complete the non-wetsuit trek, but all 18 competitors made the Rip Swim honour board to acknowledge their efforts.

Swimmers were ferried to deep water and dropped off nearby Point Nepean.

“The big thing for me this year was the relationship between the event and Ports Victoria because for the first time this year we were given a window for swimmers to safely cross the shipping channel,” Mr Siedle said.

“It huge for us because it allows to run the race portion of the Rip Swim, which might lead to it becoming an annual event.

Rip Race women’s winner Mackenzie Hunter.

“Our first race was held in 2015, the second was held in 2018.”

In addition to Dilissen and Hunter, former winner Lisandra de Carvalho (52.39) and Olympian Bronte Campbell (45.16) were just some of the names to compete on the day.