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The Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic continues to grow as an important athletic and social event. It is a yearly, open ocean fun race extending 2.2 kilometers from Wategos Beach to the iconic Byron Bay Surf Club on Main Beach in town. 2011 will be the 24th organization of the event that was first launched in 1988. From modest beginnings as a local charity function, the swim has expanded year after year to build the solid momentum it enjoys today.
Many participants and visitors drive to the small town of Byron Bay for the event. It is located about 160 kilometers south of Brisbane and 660 kilometers north of Sydney. Those arriving by plane usually land at Ballina located 25 kilometers south of the town. Those sailing to the event can moor their vessel at a marina at Tweed Heads (50 kilometers north) or perhaps find a quiet anchorage in the wide Richmond River at Ballina. Skippers should cross the river bar with caution, it can get difficult.
The race begins at Wategos Beach and finishes at Main Beach opposite the celebrated Byron Bay Surf Club. The course is indicated by large buoys. It channels swimmers around the famed surf spot known as The Pass, and then makes a bee-line for the finish line.
The first race was launched back in 1988 with about 100 brave souls entering to win. Today, the race is a major event on many sporting calendars. At least 1,700 contestants are anticipated to attend in 2011. Given the big swarm of entrants, they are launched on a staggered start. Surprisingly, the elite contestants are started last.
Wategos is one of the most picturesque beaches in the region and makes an ideal starting point. Some of the most expensive real estate and finest homes along the north coast of New South Wales overlook the beach. Its shore has a large green, picnic area that forms a perfect spot for swimmers to meet and complete their final check-in before a 10am start.
Participants are requested to register online in advance of the event. Entrance forms are available at the race website. There is a formal deadline for official registrations. People who miss that cut-off date may join the swim but their time will not be recorded. Race organizers are at Wategos from at least 7am on race day to check-in pre-registered swimmers. The race kicks-off at 10am.
In conclusion, swimmers participating in the Byron Bay Ocean Swim Classic should be aware that they need to make their own arrangements for any belongings they leave onshore at Wategos. Most participants leave them with family or friends. Some donate their clothes to charity by depositing them into bins provided specially for the day. Others leave their belongings in their car at Main Beach and then stroll the short distance to Wategos before taking the plunge.
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