Apart from Williamstown open water swim (which I had the good luck of missing), the Anglesea Rock2Ramp was shaping up to be challenging from the get-go. The prediction of strong winds generally means swimmers must be prepared for an arm-wrestle with the ocean.

In the morning, a heavy summer rain greeted everyone collecting their racing kits. The 2.5k and 1.2k swimmers then had an opportunity to scan the course markers and water conditions. Peering through the gap in the ti-trees past the breakwater, the race track lay quietly in waiting.

However there were things (human emotions) bubbling below the surface of the eyes staring at the blue horizon. For in the water today there were yet again statements to be made, reputations to be consolidated, and scores to settled.  Therefore it’s time again to strap on the timer, slip into the skimpy lycra and let the funky latex cap compress the ears for ultimate streamlining, ’cause the Belugas mean business in the water!

Not even the recent heightened media and community concern that sharks also swim at beaches in the region could scare these intelligent wannabe marine mammals.

The 2.5km started with diving lunges through the waves. As usual navigation plays an important role in distance swimming. So he (or she) who swims straight generally has a better chance of winning.

Now to the all important grudge match result where blood and guts are spilled all over the course to determine a winner. Regrets, will be some, but excuses, there will be none.

Last time I did not name names and there was some dismay in my lack of triumphant heraldry for the winner so this time I will comply. Raoul was able to wear the grudge grin from ear to ear and the loser must quietly stitch his ego. Today’s victory brings riches but tomorrow’s challengers may trigger nervous twitches …

On the other side of the coin, especially in the 1.2km, the personal victories were aplenty. Some Belugas rose to relish in the rough conditions and devour their opponents. Tim Walker got such a great start that he stopped to yell out proudly to everyone in the race that he was placing second, but that did not last for long. Judy and Kate along with others recorded a dignified top 10 placing.

Special mention to Alex for the youngest spectator eagerly awaiting mummy’s return. The sharp performances also to be mentioned came from Sue, Tracy and Liz. Swimming caps off to the ladies.

The best part of the day had now arrived with lunch hosted by Raoul, Susanne and Orla. This meant a delicious reward was in store for the hungry Belugas. Tim and Melissa soon arrived with travel stories and wine. Ken introduced his daughter Tess. Ale brought the family and Tracy enjoyed having John by her side. Wayne and Kate conjured up a great salad, Judy was ever-delightful company, and there was polite jostling for turns to hold baby Mattias.

Paul and Gail caught up with everyone to share the occasion and report progress on the their clever BBQ construction. Sue drizzled some prize oil and Liz and Doris added some insight into their performance on the day. Peter and Anthony were contemplating bigger fish to fry with reference to their upcoming adventure swim to Rottnest Island WA. Craig and I ate well and washed some dishes in appreciation.

In all an enjoyable eventful gathering was had by all Belugas big and small.

Results below, with thanks as always to Anthony Ferguson for expert compiling.