Countdown to popular swimming event

The State NZ Ocean Swim Series returns to Canterbury on Sunday 19 February with the State La Grande Swim in Akaroa, and Christchurch residents have been offered a special incentive to enter.

Approximately 800 swimmers are expected to enter the State La Grande Swim, formerly known as the Corsair Classic, with ages ranging from 6 years through to 80. Organisers remain committed to Canterbury’s inclusion in the popular nationwide series, despite the event being cancelled due to storms in 2008, and earthquakes in 2011.

The action kicks off at 9.30am, and swimmers competing in the children’s 200-metre State OceanKids, the ‘Give It A Go’ 300-metre swim, the ‘Step It Up’ 1000-metre swim or the more challenging ‘I’m Going Long’ 2.8-kilometre swim around Akaroa Harbour.

To recognize the difficult 2011 the city has had, Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn residents who enter the State La Grande Swim have been offered a 50 percent discount on the registration fee.

"We're thrilled to have this event remain in Canterbury,” says Mayor Bob Parker. “State La Grande Swim organisers’ commitment to Akaroa as its new venue has been a wonderful boost for the region. Their generous offer of discounted registration for our residents means there's no excuse for not taking the plunge.”

Scott Rice, Event Director of the State NZ Ocean Swim Series, says swimming is a great way to get fit, de-stress and socialise. “We hope that the offer of discounted registration helps as many Cantabrians as possible start working towards their personal goals as they rebuild their lives.”

Registration for the State La Grande Swim closes at midnight on Friday 17 February 2012. Please visit www.oceanswim.co.nz for more information.