In a stunning achievement, 62-year-old Rose Leamon from Gerringong won the 50 years-and-over age division at the Cole Classic ocean swim, the world's largest ocean swim, held at Manly in late January. She also placed in the top 10 among all female competitors.
Leamon, a volunteer at Gerringong Surf Club and a regular swimmer at Werri Point, intensified her training in the three months leading up to the 5km race. Her dedication paid off, leaving her amazed at the result. 'I never expected it,' she said. 'I knew I'd worked hard, but there are plenty of better swimmers out there.'
Originally from Glen Innes, 700km north of Gerringong, Leamon moved to Sydney for work before retiring in 2021 and seeking a quieter life on the South Coast. She chose Gerringong because of its ocean swim group, which she joined about four years ago. 'The community has completely wrapped their arms around me,' she said.
Leamon now volunteers seven days a week at the surf club's coffee kiosk and swims up to six days a week. She credits the social aspect for keeping her involved. 'I have a purpose, and I get to put back into the club,' she said.
Her swimming journey began in high school, with a later stint under former Olympian Graeme Brewer at Willoughby Swim Club. She did her first ocean swim at age 29, initially nervous and lacking tactics. Ocean swimming remains her preferred fitness activity due to its variability and unstructured nature.
