Olympic medallist makes a splash
Locals in the coastal town of Byron Bay (North New South Wales) recently had the chance to swim alongside Olympic silver medallist Moesha Johnson.
“Swim the Bay with Moe” was an event that marked Moesha’s first swim since her second-place finish in the 10-kilometre marathon swim in the River Seine in Paris. She also secured sixth place in the 1500-metre freestyle pool swim.
After the swim, Moesha mingled with locals, taking photos, signing swim caps and giving away freebies, making the day memorable for all those who joined the swim or passed by. “I was a bit nervous about getting in after a break, but I was swimming alongside the local Alstonville kids who were so fun and supportive, and once we dove in and got moving, I was reminded again of how much I love swimming,” Moesha says.
“Today was a full-circle moment. Byron Bay is where I started ocean swimming. To see people here who are consistently giving it a go was really cool.”
Mark Bligh, a local Adventist, helped to coordinate the event, while Manna Haven Café — an initiative of Byron Bay Adventist church—invited everyone for lunch.
Mark started a local ocean swim group two years ago. They meet up to six days a week, offering more than just a workout — for many, it’s become a place to connect and enjoy the natural beauty of the bay. The group starts each swim with a prayer, in which they always include a compulsory request to be kept safe from sharks — though none have been spotted yet!
Mark has seen significant changes among those who swim regularly and noted that it’s been particularly beneficial for men struggling with mental health. “There are incredible benefits of being in the ocean and so many minerals which you get in your system,” he says. “I was a bit frumpier before. But I’ve lost 16 kilograms.”
Since the swim group started, not only has it helped people live a more active lifestyle, but it has also brought people together and opened their eyes to the beauty around them. —Zanita Fletcher