Dream team aims for race glory
Deane Pieters is hoping for glory in tomorrow's Rottnest Channel Swim and he is in just the team to do it.
Former Olympian Mal Allen has joined Pieters, and surf lifesaving champions Liam Ryan and David Locke in team Rottnest Express.
"It is the first time Mal will be doing the Rottnest swim, but he is a very experienced open-water swimmer," 1992 Olympian Pieters said.
"He recently swam the Maui Channel Swim and is probably one of the fittest 40-year-olds around."
Allen replaced Paul Laver, who is competing in the individual category this year.
Pieters said the team was well-placed to beat the race record of 3h 42m, set in 2004.
"We aim to beat last year's time of 3 hours 55 minutes and hopefully achieve a record," he said.
"Mal coming into the team is a huge benefit for us.
"The weather is favourable for a record attempt - to have an easterly behind us is ideal."
Allen, based in Sydney, arrived in Perth last night and has stuck to a rigorous training program for the swim.
Pieters said Allen would lead out the Rottnest Express team.
"Mal will go off the beach and do the first kilometre," he said.
"We will change it up from there.
"The last five kilometres of the race is the most important because you have to position yourself near the island and adjust to the current.
"Experience counts for a lot and the right mindset is important."
