Monthly Successes
Posted by SBCSA, 9 September 2015
Pictured L to R: Coach Alex Nieto, Mo Bourdi, Brandon Bass, Karsten Johnson, Meghan Merlihan, Jessica Moore and Christopher Mykkanen
On August 10th, a relay from the club swim team Irvine Novaquatics, successfully swam from Santa Cruz Island to mainland. Mo Bourdi (15), Brandon Bass (16), Karsten Johnson (15), Meghan Merlihan (18), Jessica Moore (15) and Christopher Mykkanen (14) crossed the channel in a record time of 8:31:30 beating the old record by almost 1 hour and 40 minutes. They also became the youngest relay to ever attempt or complete a relay under the SBCSA. Congratulations Team Nova!
Sarah Green and her support team on board the 30’ sailboat called Wavelength
On August 29th, Sarah Green completed the 59th swim between Anacapa Island and the California mainland. Sarah overcame 10-15mph winds, strong currents and small craft advisory to become the 21st female to conquer the channel. She started her swim on Arch Rock and finished at Hollywood Beach in 8:07:19.
Natalie Merrow, Kayaker Dawn Brooks and an aerial view of Santa Barbara Island
On September 1st, Natalie Merrow became the first person to circumnavigate Santa Barbara Island. Natalie, who was escorted by the boat Perfect Mistress, completed her 5 mile swim in 2:41:58. She had smooth conditions on north side of the island and swell and chop on the south. Natalie encountered a few seals, countless birds and some cuts and scrapes caused by the tricky finish.