Freediving Instructors International

2011-05-31

1st Annual Fort Lauderdale Freediving Open

International Swimming Hall of Fame, 30th May, 2011

Organized by FII (Freediving Instructors International) and South Florida Freedivers

Given the incredibly tight time line FII was given to organize this event, we were absolutely thrilled with the turnout at the International Swimming Hall of Fame on Memorial Day. We envisioned the freediving event to be a fun, enjoyable day that grew the freediving community and enticed in participants from all different backgrounds and interests. It was exciting actually see this come to light. Our oldest competitor was 73 year old, Gene Massagee, whom, having never done Static Apnea before pulled out 4:17 minutes much to the dismay of an enthusiastic crowd. The field was incredibly diverse in both experience levels and backgrounds. Deep Worldwide's Dimitris Kollias and World Record Spearfisherman, Brandon Wahlers both displayed impressive dedication proving their talents in the Dyamic Apnea and Static Apnea disciplines.  Spectators were also of great diversity; we were keenly joined by a dedicated Yogie who came to swim, but became so mesmerized she ended up staying on for the whole day. Spearfishing legends, Sheri Daye and Daryl Wong enjoyed the end of the show excited to be apart of what we all see as becoming a hotly anticipated international event.

Local FII L1 Freediver, Yury Bylina took home the Men's Overall Division and Susan Airala won the Women's Overall Division. Not bad for both being first time competitors!

1st Annual Fort Lauderdale Freediving Open Final Results:

1st Women's Static Apnea - Ashleigh Baird 5:00

1st Men's Static Apnea - Yury Bylina 5:20

1st Women's Dynamic - Susie Airala 80 meters

1st Men's Dynamic - Tony Babowicz 122meters

1st Women's Overall - Susie Airala

1st Men's Overall - Yury Bylina

Winner of the International Category - Dimitris Kollias

We would like to thank our generous event sponsors: Austin's Diving Center, Scuba Network, Pompano Dive Center, Florida Freedivers, Scuba Works and Force-E Dive Centers. Images kindly provided by In-Sea Online.

Congratulations to everyone for such a phenomenal success... we look forward to 2012!