Queenslanders dominate Jim Wall

BURLEIGH Heads Mowray Park athletes Corey Fletcher and Charlotte Cross reigned supreme in the 64th annual Jim Wall Classic on Sunday.

It was close to a Queensland clean sweep in the prestigious male and female iron events, with the sunshine state locking in five of six podium spots at Torquay Beach.

 

Ethan Jackson (Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park) and former Torquay clubbie Archie Vernon (Surfers Paradise) claimed second and third respectively in the open male race.

In the women’s race, Mordiallic lifesaver Jemma Holt secured second place, while Holly Holmesy (Burleigh Heads Mowray Park) nabbed third.

Sunday’s event saw more than 300 competitors test themselves in all-round surf and water ability, with the endurance format including continuous efforts in swimming, board, ski paddling and running.

Lifesavers from across Australia took to the water in more than 35 races, ranging from Under 13 board races to open age taplin teams disciplines.

Torquay SLSC competition manager Matt Henderson said it was a fantastic day on the Surf Coast.

“We had a strong contingent from Burleigh Heads among other clubs like Elouera, Mermaid Beach who complemented our local athletes.

“The top five in the men’s was really interesting, with three of them [Archie Vernon, Matt Gilling and Drew Green] all originally from down this way.

“It was a tight race until Corey broke away during the ski. Charlotte made her move during the ski.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better day all round. Nice and clean water and a bit of swell, which made it really interesting.”

Ocean Grove was awarded as the top club at the event after securing two first places, six seconds and multiple top six finishes.

Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park was second, followed by Anglesea in third, Torquay in fourth and Warrnambool in fifth.

For full results, head to liveheats.com/events/311435

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