Beach course keeps crowd entertained

Competition was enthusiastic in the inaugural Gaye Evans Fitness Beach Aquathon at Tahunanui Beach on Sunday.

Jon Linyard took the lead part of the way through the 2km run on the sand, gradually increasing it during the 1km swim and the repeat 2km run.

With a 500m run circuit and a 330m swim triangle, spectators had plenty to look at, even during the swim, as competitors ran on to the beach between laps.

Jack Thornton, 15, keeps getting stronger and he used his swim skills to great advantage, setting himself up in second and holding it during the final run.

Lyndon Chandler, Bill Revell, Denis Cooper and Paul Thornton took the next spots.

Kirstin Ramsay also capitalised on her swim strength, winning easily from Alexandra Geldez, Anja Goldbach, Lindsey Chamberlain and Carolyn Squance.

The short race was a very cheerful event, with competitors buoyed by the crowd support.

Charlie Squance rattled around the 1km run at good speed, but didn't handle the 300m swim so well, with Kit Vining taking control coming back to the beach.

However, it was Max Meffan who stole the show, trotting effortlessly into the lead to finish nine seconds ahead of Vining, with Squance unable to regain his running legs a minute back.

Frith Brown and Andrea Campkin cleaned up the women's section.

For full results, see nelsonseaswims.co.nz.

- © Fairfax NZ News