The Moscow 5K Open Water Swimming Championship was, as always, a tough competition for the elites and an enjoyable one for everyone else. “We are very pleased that every year the number of participants is increasing with several world and European champions also competing. We are planning to hold a stage of the World Cup, so these championship is a rehearsal,” said Stanislav Lyovochkon.

The championships, like many other elite competitions, also held an open relay race for all swimmers of any age and ability.

Ekaterina Seliverstova (shown above at the 2009 World Swimming Championships), one of the fastest women in the world between 5 and 10K, finished ahead of another world-class distance swimmer, world championship medalist Anna Uvarova. “Every year, I come here to take part in the competition. I like this event very much. For me, it was more a sort of training session and I was confident that I’d win. This victory will inspire me for the forthcoming World Championships.”

With three world championship silver medals and three fourth-place finishes under her cap since 2003, Ekaterina is knocking at the door of a gold medal.

Copyright © 2010 by Steven Munatones