The Elite Series
Introduced in October 2022, The Elite Series is a high-performance category for top open water swimmers in Western Australia.
This 2024/25 season, all Swimming WA competitive members can join. Register for the three State Championship Rounds (see below) to compete for the Elite Shield and prize money!
Points are awarded based on placements in each State Championship round. The swimmer with the highest total points across all three rounds will win the Elite Shield and an additional $500 prize. Note: To be eligible for the Elite Shield and prize, participants must compete in all three State Championship Rounds.
Each of the three State Championship Rounds offers increased prize money for individual races, awarded to the top three finishers. Visiting swimmers from other states are eligible to win prize money.
State Championship Rounds for 2024/25
- OWS Series Round 1: Leighton (7.5km States)
- OWS Series Round 2: Bunbury (5km States)
- OWS Series Round 3: Coogee (10km States)
The top performer across these rounds, accumulating the most points, will be awarded the Elite Shield and a $500 prize.
| Gold | Silver | Bronze |
Round 1: Leighton (7.5km States) | $250 | $150 | $100 |
Round 2: Bunbury (5km States) | $250 | $150 | $100 |
Round 3: Coogee (10km States) | $250 | $150 | $100 |
Overall Elite Series Winner | $500 | ||
Do I have to be a member to compete?
Yes, you must be a competitive Swimming WA (SWA) member and swim all three states to be eligible to win the Elite Shield and $500 prize pool.
Can interstate swimmers compete for the round prize money?
Yes, interstate and international swimmers can compete for the prize money but are not eligible for the Elite Shield.
Why is there not a series similar to the 2022/23 season?
SWA conducted a survey of last year’s swimmers and found that different training programs, interstate and international commitments, and preparation for Open Water Nationals made it difficult for swimmers to participate in a full series. Therefore, this year’s focus is on the three State Championships Rounds, ensuring the best swimmers in WA compete, with potential challengers from other states.
For more information or if you have any feedback or questions, please contact us at ows@wa.swimming.org.au.