The women’s race at the State Bay of Islands Classic today in the 2013 State New Zealand Ocean Swim Series was expected to be a tight battle between two of New Zealand’s up-and coming-swimmers Liana Smith and Paige Schendelaar-Kemp, who are both from Auckland.

But the 15-year-old Schendelaar-Kemp quickly made it look easy with a dominating 2-minute victory in the rough water conditions.

In all, 725 swimmers swam in today’s main race, a record for the event, in the strong nor-east breeze up to 20 knots.

Round three of the six-round series is in Wellington on January 22nd 2014. The final three races are held in Akaroa, Mount Maunganui and on Auckland’s North Shore.

2013 State Bay of Islands Classic Results:

1. Paige Schendelaar-Kemp (Auckland) 47:10
2. Liana Smith (Auckland) 49:31

2013/2014 Series Standings:

1. Paige Schendelaar-Kemp 196.61
2. Liana Smith 189.94
3. Charlotte Webby (New Plymouth) 100.00

Photo of Paige Schendelaar-Kemp by Simon Watts of BWMedia Photography.

Copyright © 2013 by World Open Water Swimming Association