By Alexandra Golder
Contributing Writer
University of North Carolina Wilmington swimmers set the pace at today’s Wrightsville Beach Pier-2-Pier ocean race as this year’s participants were sparred the jellyfish infestation that marred last year’s race.
Race director Shannon Berg said she was excited to have 150 swimmers participate, saying the clear water conditions and security measures made for a successful race Saturday morning, which is contested over the 1.7 mile span between the town’s Crystal and Johnnie Mercer’s piers.
“The fear of returning jellyfish in the water deterred people away from the race this year,” said Berg. “We’re happy there’s none in the water today.”
Top male winner of the 1.7-mile race was William Ryan, a UNCW student who finished in 32:28. Top female winner was Lacy Phillips, also a UNCW student, who finished in 36:45.
Top master male winner was Chris Martin of Hampstead, N.C., who finished in 36:10, while Dot Munger of Wilmington was the master female winner, finishing in 40:11.
The Wilmington Family YMCA and the Cape Fear Aquatic Club hosted the 12th edition of the open water ocean race, held each year in memory of Ryan Young, a former UNCW swimmer who died in a car accident nearly eight years ago.
Berg, operations director at the Y, said the safety of the swimmers was the event’s main concern. To ensure a smooth race occurred, three boats, jet skis, the Coast Guard, local EMS and over 25 beach guards were on site.
According to Munger, this year’s water conditions made it the easiest Pier-2-Pier race yet. Typically a pool swimmer, this is Munger’s fifth time participating in the open ocean water race.
“The race is a fun social event,” said Munger, owner of Toad Hallow Swim Shop. “It’s nice being out here and seeing customers.”
The UNCW Swimming and Diving Team volunteered and partook in the race.
“They’re rocking it,” said Berg, who was grateful to have the team there to cheer on participants.
