This was published 8 years ago
Susie O'Neill's first 200m freestyle race since Olympics
By Bennet Nichol
Olympic gold medallist Susie O'Neill has returned to the pool to help launch the Cancer Council's March Charge initiative.
The champ faced down three four-person relay teams in a 200 metre race, held at the Yeronga Park Swimming Pool.
Susie O'Neill at her peak, winning gold in the 200m freestyle at the Sydney Olympics.Credit: Craig Golding
Nova 106.9 presenters Ash, Kip and Luttsy headed teams of three listeners, with each contestant swimming a 50 metre length of their chosen stroke against Susie.
Luttsy's team took home the win, followed by Ash's in second place, with Susie making third before Kip's team finished fourth.
O'Neill said she enjoyed being back in a race environment, especially for a good cause.
"It was fun being back in the race type atmosphere… that's the first time I've raced the 200 free since the Sydney Olympics," O'Neill said.
"It's a good cause The March Charge. It's about people running, swimming and riding to raise money to stop cancer."
The Cancer Council's The March Charge encourages participants to raise money by pledging to run, swim or cycle a set distance by the end of March.
O'Neill also said that exercise and a healthy lifestyle are important elements in the prevention of cancer.
"Nearly every person I know is touched by cancer, usually a direct family member if not someone who's very close," O'Neill said.
"I'd encourage people to start little, do something small, even if it's daily. Park your car further away from somewhere and walk. Something simple makes the difference."