It’s time to sink or swim for Australia’s biggest names when they dive in for the 2024 Celebrity Relay Race at the Australian Swimming Trials on Wednesday, June 12.

In a big change of pace, a huge cast of Aussie celebrities and Swimming legends will assemble at Brisbane Aquatic Centre for their very own shot at glory in a 50m freestyle relay. 

A colourful cast of personalities will make up the celebrity contingent which includes Karl Stefanovic, Michelle Payne, Johnathan Thurston, Sylvia Jeffreys, Millie  Elliot (nee Boyle), husband and wife duo Owen Wright (Surfing) and Kita Alexander (Musician), Clint Stanaway, Kerri Pottharst, Nitro Circus BMX rider Ryan Williams, Sam Thaiday and Wallabies rugby union legend Drew Mitchell.

Joining them will be some of Australia’s biggest swimming legends: Susie O’Neill, Duncan Armstrong, Mack Horton, Jess Schipper, Jodie Henry, Justin Norris just to name a few. 

Stefanovic said: “You’ve all heard of the Thorpedo, but now it’s time for the Karlnado. Never has swimming seen a specimen quite like this. I’m back on home ground in Queensland which is always worth a few extra points, and I will take down all challengers in my quest for Gold.” 

Sylvia Jeffreys, said: “My swimming career may have peaked in high school as 7th place at district championships, but with size 12 feet I have built-in flippers and I’m not afraid to use them.”

Thaiday said: “I glide like a gazelle in the pool and after a training session with Dean Boxall last year I am now ready to outlast and outwit on my way to glory.”

“I have studied the ways of some of the greats while watching the footy at home on the lounge and I will harness the power of my budgie smugglers to get the job done. I’m from Townsville so we swim faster because of the crocodiles. I can still make the team for Paris 2024.”

In commentary for Nine’s Wide World of Sports will be Ian Thorpe, Giaan Rooney and Ellie Cole, alongside host James Bracey, race caller Mat Thompson and Roz Kelly poolside.

The race is available live and free on Channel 9 and to stream on 9Now.

TEAM LINEUPS

2024 CELEBRITY RACE 
AUSTRALIAN SWIMMING TRIALS
LIVE AND FREE ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW
WEDNESDAY JUNE 12

Thursday, June 6, 2024