Marathon swimmers commended on Channel triple-crossing

4/9/97

Premier Richard Court today congratulated the six Western Australian marathon swimmers who last night completed a triple crossing of the English Channel.

The swimmers, Shelley Taylor-Smith, Peter Blackmore, Barbara Pellick, Mark Dawson, Nancy Warnock and Gary Bradley, and their support team including reserve swimmer Murray Johnston, completed the 110km swim in 32 hours and 50 minutes.

Mr Court said the team faced difficult conditions on the third crossing of the Channel.

"In true Western Australian spirit the team battled on and achieved the triple crossing," he said.

"I admire each of them for their tenacity and perseverance.

"On behalf of the State I congratulate the team on its great achievement."

Only two other teams have successfully completed a triple crossing of the English Channel. A team from New South Wales in 1990 and an international team in 1991.

Media contact: Casey Cahill 9222 9475