Record day in Outgames pool

A world record was hit out of the water at the Outgames today, when swimmer Kirsten Cameron knocked three and a half seconds off the previous international fastest time.

Kirsten, a contestant in the 800 metres women’s freestyle in the 35-39 age group, finished with a time of 9:05:69. The previous long course (50 metre pool) record was 9:09:12.

The Wellingtonian said she decided to compete in the Outgames because the swimming section is FINA, or International Swimming Federation, sanctioned – “And while I’m not gay, I have a lot of friends who are,” she said.

Her experience competing in the Outgames has been an overwhelmingly positive one, she added.

“This has been the most fun day of swim racing I’ve ever had. The whole atmosphere is just so relaxed and friendly. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”

Swim meet director Martin Kaulback said that 166 people have registered for the swimming competition, with 133 of those showing up today.

He encouraged all those who want to see the swimmers in action to come along to the – “It’s a great spectator sport and it’s only a dollar entry fee,” he said.

| Anna Loren, www.gayexpress.co.nz