Matthew Nott has never missed a Wharf to Waves swim and this weekend will be no exception.
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Dr Nott said the forecast for this weekend would form ideal conditions for anyone looking to take on the ocean swim.
“If you’ve thought about giving it a go, the conditions are shaping up to be perfect – the water has warmed up and we’re predicting pretty flat surf,” he said.
“Even in rough conditions the swim can be tough, but it’s always glorious.”
“It is a terrific weekend in Tathra for anyone who wants to get involved, you don’t have to be a sportsman, it’s all about getting out there, having fun and maybe tackling something you’ve never done before.”
Given that it’s an open-ocean swim the conditions can be wildly vairable, but Dr Nott said that was part of what made the event so exciting.
Swimmers are coming back time and again to take part, with membership of the illustrious Squidgy Club climbing.
“The club is people who’ve completed 10 swims and it’s a growing band of loyal followers of this fantastic Tathra event,” Dr Nott said.
He is even one of a small group of people who’ve contested every single Wharf to Waves and built a long-term rivalry with fellow Squidgy Club member David Forrest.
“It includes one of sporting history’s most enduring rivalries between myself and David,” Dr Nott said with a laugh. “With his boundless enthusiasm he's made it an international, he's refused to lay down and the rivalry continues.”
Mr Forrest will officially complete the swim in a hotel pool in the African Republic of Benin on Saturday as he works with the Africa Mercy Ship.
“Normally we emerge from the water within seconds of each other, but I think we’ll need to put a handicap on him this year given he’s competing in a pool,” Dr Nott laughs, “but that will be up to the officials.”
The swim legs are held over 600 metre age division swims and the On the Perch Splash for Cash over 1200 metres.
There will also be entertainment at the Tathra Surf Life Saving Club Sunday night following the events.
The Jonathan Richman experience will play from 7 to 10pm. Middle Eastern style food will be available from Spicy Mama.
Registrations and more details at www.wharf2waves.com.au