The Spit Amateur Swimming Club was founded in February 1917.
Since then, members have included former Olympians Edna Davey, Gergaynia Beckett, Kim Herford, Murray Rose, Brett Hill and Roger Cornforth.
The Spit Baths were officially opened in 1901 where Middle Harbour Yacht Club is now located. It closed in 1962 when Sam Herford, long-time coach of amateurs as well as Olympians, and owner of the baths, sold up.
The club moved to Balmoral Baths where it has remained ever since. It has always been a hub of amateur competitive swimming for the local community and welcomes swimmers of all ages, shapes, sizes and abilities.
If you would like more information, email spitswim100@hotmail.com, look for us on facebook or just come down for a swim on a Saturday morning between October and April!
4 Comments. Leave new
Hi there, one of my close friends and her family swim with you and she has encouraged us to come down.
Can you tell me anything more about the swimming. I have children aged 14,11 and 9. Can we come for a day trial to see if we enjoy the morning? We live in Lindfield but love Balmoral. Saturday morning sport finishes in 2 weeks and then we are free. Does the swimming run through Dec and Jan? Thanks so much, Jacqui
I james m legallien won the benson cup between 1947-1950 under 12 years. Now i am 81 years of age. I would like to know if any records are available.
Hi James – thanks for getting in touch! Mosman Library may have some of the records – In 2017, we also published a book on the club ‘ Swimming With The Spit’ that you might enjoy reading.
Hi my name is Guy Parker my father Neil Parker swam at the spit baths in about 1951 -1952 he says he was trained by a gent named Harry Hayes and he fondly remembers Kim Herford as a very young girl at the time .Dad is now 85 he is from Parkes in central west nsw he went to school with Rex Aubrey and swam against him for many years . Dad would like to know if Kim is still alive , kind regards Guy Parker