Tamara Bruce with her father Roger.
Camera IconTamara Bruce with her father Roger. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Lathlain: Swim queen Tamara Bruce named Busselton Jetty Swim ambassador

Matt ZisSouthern Gazette

PREPARATIONS for next year’s Busselton Jetty Swim have begun much closer to home.

Australian distance swimming icon Tamara Bruce, who lives in Lathlain, was last week announced as the event’s ambassador.

Bruce still holds the mantle for the fastest Rottnest Channel Swim, a record she set as an up-and-coming teenager 25 years ago, and as the fastest Australian female to cross the English Channel solo.

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For all her achievements, last year was her first chance to take part in Busselton’s iconic event.

“I had wanted to do this swim since I was younger however national swimming commitments kept me from competing,” she said.

“My biggest challenge of the swim is being distracted by the beauty of the jetty and the bottom of the ocean.

“Last year was so clear to see so many things.

Nearly 3000 people are registered to take part next February, including children and participants in the new 1km swim.

“I admire the courage of all the swimmers that come from all walks of life and abilities and are not necessarily seasoned swimmers, but they all have the same goal to swim around the jetty,” Bruce said.

“This is such an iconic swim, I love the unique setting and the many different ages and abilities that the swim can incorporate.”