Six-time champion paving way for next generation

NAANTALI Marshall has won the Pier to Pub on six occasions, but this year will be a new challenge.

As the Pier to Pub moves virtual, which allows competitors to submit a time from anywhere in the country between November and January, Marshall will swim her 1.2km swim between Anglesea main beach and Point Roadknight.

Not only will she be returning to her beloved Anglesea, she will be joined by a number of Anglesea Surf Club youngsters for the iconic swim.

Marshall was excited to join what she expects to be 10-15 youngsters, many of which taking part in the swim for the first time, in the water.

Marshall said she was so pleased to see the event continuing, even if it is in a

different manner to normal. Marshall, who coaches many kids in this age bracket, said it was great to have something to aim towards after a year where so much was taken away.

“I coach the nippers and other Surf Club kids, it’ll be nice to have some events for them, because I know some kids felt a bit lost without their swims and sport,” Marshall said.

“I think it’s quite important to keep people engaged in the event… I’d be really sad if they cancelled it.”

Head of Health Safety and Environment at Powercor, the major sponsor of the Pier to Pub, Steve Bourke said the business was elated to see the event going ahead and even more so about continuing their partnership.

“It’s quite awesome to be able to support an event like this,” Mr Bourke said.

“We’re pretty proud to support the Lorne Life Saving Club and for that matter Surf Life Saving Victoria across the board.

“They do an amazing job patrolling the beaches and keeping our community safe.”

Mr Bourke and his son will also compete in the event, choosing to do the swim at Wye River, a popular holiday destination for the family.