Pittwater Online News

The Newport Pool to Peak has become one of the biggest ocean swimming events on the annual calendar and has grown from the traditional 2kms to offer 400m and 800m courses as well. This has enabled swimmers to test their swim skills and gain experience in ocean swimming which is very different to pool swimming, as ocean swimmers will attest.

John Guthrie, chairman of the Pool to Peak, ocean swim organising committee, says the club’s swims feature a strong safety culture with many safety craft in the water and drone surveillance.

“This means swimmers are being observed at all times which helps to build confidence in tackling the surf and currents. Of course, we encourage swimmers to train for their event with a combination of attaining surf skills, lap swimming in addition to general physical training such as weights.

“Ocean swimming can be arduous so swimmers are responsible for their individual fitness. We will have lifesavers in the break to assist any swimmers who are finding it too difficult. Again, entrants are encouraged to put their hand up if they find themselves unable to complete the course,” said John.

The Pool to Peak is known as the friendly affordable swim event and swimmers all go in the draw for a great range of prizes. Medals are also presented to category winners, one of the few ocean swim events to continue the tradition.

“We are proud of the fun atmosphere generated on the day. Swimmers are welcomed back on shore with succulent, fresh fruit, from Harris Farm Markets, our long-term major sponsors, to take away the salty taste in your mouth. Then there is the barbecue, featuring ingredients from Harris Farm Markets, a popular feature with hungry swimmers,” John continued.

Following the prize and medal presentations, swimmers and their families can enjoy a drink at the club’s bar or take advantage of one of the many coffee shops in the Newport shopping centre including The Peak Café a sponsor of the Pool to Peak, Newport has clubs such as the Royal Motor Yacht Club who would like to enjoy lunch with a view of Pittwater.

There is an added incentive for swimmers to enter the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series in 2026. For swimmers who swim at least three of the swims in the series, they will go in the draw for a $250 voucher a male & female swimmer for a fine dining experience at the Basin Restaurant.

To complete the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series the Avalon swims will be on Sunday 15 March. That includes their iconic Around the Bends swim from Newport to Avalon.