The first day of the well anticipated Masters  Swimming Australia 2016 National Championships has been completed. Here are a few phrases to describe the day. Let me set the scene by adapting a famous movie line.
“I love the the smell of chlorine in the morning … smells like … victory.”

Well this was so true for some on a personal level as they improved on and set new club records.

The Brunswick Belugas gathered at the usual vantage point at MSAC with our banner on display. Apon our arrival meet and greet pleasantries were exchanged before getting down to business because the events were soon marshalled.

There was brief but fabulous morning interlude where the opening ceremony unfolded. Our president Raoul Mulder was the flag bearer for the Belugas with a long procession of other australian club representatives following behind.

After they all  finished parading around the main pool they were then joined by colourful dancing girls and boys with top hats and tails to the tunes of advance Australia fair and the Peter Allen classic “I go to Rio”. I could not help thinking that it was a very tasteful and appropriate performance with just a hint of gala. Hats off to MSA.

Back to business with nerves to calm and questions to answer.
Was there pain? Yes!
Was there joy? Yes!
Were there regrets? NEVER.

Just as a teaser, the names of these Belugas performed and hit our record charts (full details to will be broadcast on the Brunswick Belugas website in due course).

Sue Cox
400 IM: Club Record set and Personal Best achieved
100 Breast: Club Record set
50 Back: Club Record set

Paul Turner
400 IM: Club Record set and Personal Best achieved
100 Free: Personal Best achieved

Mike Whitburn
100 Free: Club Record set and Personal Best achieved

Raoul Mulder
100 Free: Club Record set and Personal Best achieved
100 Breast: Club Record set
50 Back: Club Record set

Craig Humann
100 Free: Personal Best achieved
100 Breast: Club Record set and Personal Best achieved

Alexandra Cateriano
100 free: Club record set
100 Breast: Club Record set

Vaughan McDonald
100 Free: Club Record set

Unfortunately we were not able to qualify for the mixed relays due to an incorrect 50/50 team balance of male and female competitors. We enjoyed the swim regardless.

Again I would like to say another well done by all and I love the fact that such a small club can have such a big presence and impact.

PS Don’t forget to submit your raffle tickets as Mike and I picked up some prizes.