EXTRA attention is building for the annual Pier to Pub ocean swim in Lorne as the coastal town still reels from the affect of a raging Christmas bush fire. A low tide means a longer walk from the start on Saturday.
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Race directors continuously keep Mark Thompson well-informed on what he should expect. It has been that way since Mr Thompson first plunged into the event 14 years ago, after sustaining an acquired brain injury that affects his balance.
“I know I’m not going to come first. I’m at the back of the field. That doesn’t bother me,” Mr Thomson said. “For me, it’s just about finishing. I struggle up the beach. I’ve never not finished.”
Mr Thompson was injured when he almost drowned in a sailing accident, trapped under water for 14 minutes. He was determined to get back in the ocean and started swimming. Better Caring workers help him walk in for training sessions in Lake Wendouree and on the coast. Mr Thompson said a lack of cold water training caught many off-guard but he was always prepared.
