The motto of masters’ swimming is fitness, friendship and fun, but at the annual Masters state championships, the focus changes to elite performance and spirited competition.
During the 2023 championships in Mackay, noone exemplified those qualities more than Noosa’s Stephanie (Steph) Jones.
Over three days of competition, four of Steph’s swims broke both the national and state records (200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m freestyle) while in two other swims she broke state records (100m freestyle and 100m backstroke) in her 65-69 age group.
These results saw Steph awarded the female swimmer of the meet trophy. Ranked in a points system devised by the international swim body FINA, Steph outpointed 104 female competitors ranging in age from 19 to 96.
Without doubt, Steph’s results are the finest ever achieved at a single meet by a member of Noosa Masters Swimming Club in its 24-year history.
Others to break state age records in Mackay were Ross Kee (100m freestyle 70-74) and Brian Hoepper (800m and 1500m breaststroke 75-79). As well, Steph, Ross and Brian teamed with Jo Matthews to break the state medley relay record 280-320.
The Noosa team’s depth of talent was reflected in the overall medal tally.
The 12-strong team won a total of 67 individual medals (30 gold, 22 silver, 15 bronze), two relay team gold and two relay team silver.
Every swimmer medalled at least once – no mean feat in some crowded age groups. Joining the four swimmers mentioned above were Rod Alfredson, Anne Besser, Jan Croft, LiQun Hussey, Lois Hill, Linda Hogg, Rob Lucas and Jacky Shields.
In two weeks’ time, a Noosa Masters team of 16 will head for the National Championships in Hobart. The competition will be stronger, but medals are anticipated.
