Lexi Hansen was the star of the show for the East Gippsland Waterdragons at the 2026 Country Long Course Championships in Geelong last weekend.
Competing against 770 regional swimmers, including 232 from Gippsland, Hansen captured gold in both the 100 metre backstroke and freestyle, and also made finals in butterfly and breaststroke, highlighting an outstanding weekend for the Bairnsdale team.
East Gippsland was represented by 10 swimmers, with Will Zevallos Fortunic making the final of the 100 metre freestyle, while the under 14 boys medley relay team, which consisted of Rory Hansen, Cooper Westwood,
Zevallos Fortunic and Cooper Sampson, winning silver.
The championships provided a competitive yet friendly atmosphere, with heats in the morning and finals in the afternoon, while families enjoyed the local area, contributing to the regional economy.
For many swimmers, achieving qualifying times and personal bests created
memorable highlights from a fast-paced and exciting meet.
