As one of the biggest and most captivating bodies of water in New Zealand, Lake Wanaka is a constant source ofinspiration in more ways than one.
Indeed, to local swimmers Eddie Spearing and Jamie Norman the lake inspired an idea which they hope will prove to be a commercial and charitable success. Their idea was conceived, in part, off the back of Challenge Wanaka, prompting the guys to focus solely on the swimming leg of a triathlon, or even the enjoyment of fresh water swimming. "There's nothing like swimming in the lake. On a flat day the water resembles a beautiful glassy surface which is amazing to swim in," Eddie muses.
They decided on naming the event 'The Ruby', fittingly named after the diminutive island which will play a large part in a number of the different races on January 17th. "Other than swimming to a buoy and back to the shore, we had to find some kind of geographical way-point on the lake which would provide more of a buzz and interest around the event".
With five races each encompassing several different age groups, Eddie was hopeful of a good turnout for 'The Ruby's' inaugural event. "We're expecting 200-300 people of all ages and abilities, and if I'm being optimistic we're hoping to push towards 500."
Other than the obvious commercial success 'The Ruby' hopes to achieve in the next few years, Eddie and Jamie are also keen to advocate the importance of swimming lessons in schools and how the event contributes towards that. "As part of the event gilt initiative $1 of every entry fee into 'The Ruby' is paid back into a fund to help schools pay for swimming lessons for its early learner pupils." This form of altruism highlighted how local events, such as this one, enables locals to see where their money is going in order to benefit their community.
For more information on "The Ruby" visit www.swimrubyisland.co.nz.
