2008 COLE CLASSIC @ MANLY

Wow! What fun I have had being MS AVERAGE!!!

July 20, 2007 at 7:14 pm

Roz Odgers, winner of the 2007 Ms Average swimmer prize of a trip for two to Vanuatu to compete in the Vanuatu Ocean Swim at Port Villa flying with Air Vanuatu and staying at the Iririki Island Resort, has sent in a report of her trip.
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Wow! What fun I have had being MS AVERAGE!!!

My husband and I arrived at Iririki Island Resort, Vanuatu, to our first class condominium accommodation overlooking their new three level pool complex, complete with swim-in bar and restaurant. Next morning was taken up with a swim tour of part of our race course and later that evening we were treated to a memorable 'Welcome Cocktail Party'. A swim clinic with Shellie and Andrew took up most of the next morning with some helpful stroke technique correction lessons for all the amateurs. Food was not spared for our 'Carbo Dinner' that evening held also at Iririki Resort.

During the 3.2km swim around Iririki Island I was able to view not only the fish of the bay but also lovely outcrops of coral and some evil looking sea anenamys. That night we enjoyed a 'Presentation Dinner' with entertainment by local dancers under the stars with views over the harbor and pool complex.

2007 Ms Average swimmer Roz Odgers & Mr Average swimmer David Hay at the finish line of the Vanuatu Ocean Swim

Sunday was spent traveling to our next destination, the island of Espiritu Santo. Accommodation was on an outlying island at Aore Resort, where we found ourselves enjoying an island bungalow with water lapping just below our balcony. What bliss!!!

The locals showed us how they cross the strait to Aore Resort the next morning with a canoe race. Many of these athletic oarsmen accompanied us on our swim the following day.

All the swimmers gathered at the Aore Resort

Exploring the Island of Espiritu Santo was then the priority with snorkeling visits to Million Dollar Point as well as our tour driver's special diving spots which included fresh water, spring blue holes.

Tuesday was race day and Santo turned another spectacular day with little wind and calm seas. A change from previous years I believe. Although the distance from Unity Park across the strait to Aore Resort was only 2.6 km, the swim looked very daunting, especially as we were warned of a cross current, but our nerves were put at bay with some spectacular local entertainment - a great band and dancers. Presentation Lunch followed our successful swim with great food put on by the Aore Resort.

I met some lovely people during my stay and hope to be able to repeat these swims and the whole Vanuatu experience again. Although my husband did not compete he enjoyed all the activities and excellent company. I can really recommend this unique combination of holiday, swims and fun on a tropical pacific island with the most friendly locals looking after all your needs.

Thank you Cole Classic for having such a fantastic prize for the 'Average Swimmer'. I will be contesting again in 2008 and will be hoping for no better and no worse. Average will do me any time.