Nelson South Swim Club representatives set alight the Virtus Oceania Asia Games in Brisbane earlier this month, notching up eight podium finishes.
Finn Russ and Helen Mackay delivered outstanding performances, representing New Zealand in the II3 (Finn) and II1 (Helen) classifications under the guidance of local swim coach Glen Findlay.
Finn raced to three silver and two bronze medals from his five events while also gaining personal best times in every race, and Helen scooped up one silver medal, two bronze medals, and a New Zealand long course record.
The pair were part of a 13-strong Kiwi team blazing a trail for other Para swimmers, both in the region and nationally.
New Zealand’s team manager, multi-Paralympic medallist Cameron Leslie, says the swimmers and coach did an amazing job at representing the region at an international level.
“Finn and Helen had great results, producing personal best times and improving their ranking during the competition.
“They’re such supportive swimmers to their teammates and competitors.”
“Glen brought a wealth of experience to the coaching group and we saw that convert to an organised group of swimmers he was looking after.”
Finn, who was sponsored by The Tides Hotel, Savage & Savage Chartered Accountants, NZ Lifebrokers and Gibbons, with support from Pics Peanut Butter and F45 Nelson for the event, now has his sights set on the Virtus Global Games, which is set to take place in France, June 2023.
You can follow his journey and progress through his Facebook page, ‘Finn Russ Athlete’.
