Ladies and gentlemen from all over the Drumheller area are heading to the Aquaplex to battle for the title of swim champions in the 2013 Battle of the Sexes.
This year, the men will be looking to reclaim their championship status. Over the years, the gents have been the perpetual underdogs, winning just once in the past 18 years.
Two years ago, the men won their first Battle of the Sexes, but were soundly defeated last year by the ladies.
“The men usually get their butts kicked. Two years ago was the first time we’ve won in a long time. Hopefully we can get more men out and beat the ladies this year,” said Tyson Anderson, an Aquaplex staff member swimming for the men.
Last year the ladies won by swimming 14,538 lengths (363 km) compared to the 13,144 (329 km) swam by the men, a difference of 1394 (34 km).
After just under a week of competition, the race is close, with the ladies at 2,115 lengths and the gents at 2,025.
“It’s pretty tight so far and there has been quite a bit of friendly trash-talking so far,” said Anderson.
More swimmers are always welcome for both teams and it’s a great way to get into swimming.
“I think it’s great. It gives people the competitive edge to come out and push themselves for that extra couple lengths. You see a lot more people coming out for it and then keep swimming regularly,” said Anderson.
To participate, just show up at the Aquaplex, and swim or walk two lengths of the pool each session. The battle will continue until the end of the month.
