Lurz and Payne named Open Water Swimmers of 2009

World Champions Thomas Lurz and British Gas swimmer Keri-Anne Payne have been given the honour of Swimming World Magazine’s Open Water Swimmers of the Year.

22-year-old Payne has enjoyed a successful 2009 which saw her emerge victorious in the Women’s Open Water event at the World Championship in Rome.

Thomas Lurz won back-to-back days at the World Championships with triumphs in the 5K and 10K. He also claimed the FINA Open Water World Cup title with some exciting wins on the circuit. It is the third time Lurz has been honoured, having previously shared the award with Chip Peterson in 2005 and won it outright in 2006.

Payne will be featured in the December issue of Swimming World Magazine along with other title winners including Diver of the Year, Water Polo Player of the Year and Synchronised Swimmer of the Year.

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