Sunday 7th February saw over 3,500 swimmers take to the water in The Sydney Morning Herald Cole Classic presented by Virgin Active. Little did they know that Shark Shield, the world’s only scientifically proven and independently tested electrical shark deterrent devices were protecting them throughout the race.
Twelve Shark Shield’s were attached one metre below on the large swim buoys that marked out the course, creating a loose electrical shield and providing a place of refuge in the unlikely event that a shark sighting occurred.
Lindsay Lyon, Shark Shield’s Managing Director said, “We were approached by the event organisers who were pro-actively seeking out proven technology to reduce risk for their contestants.”
“Traditionally, our products haven’t been used in organised ocean swims. However, in theory the devices would provide a loose electrical shield to turn sharks away had they ventured into the area, and most certainly a place of refuge for swimmers if required,” Lyon said.
Choice, Australia’s leading independent consumer watchdog, recently announced Shark Shield as the only effective shark deterrent on the market. Following an extensive review of the shark deterrent options currently available, Shark Shield was the only deterrent shown to be independently tested and scientifically proven to turn sharks away.
“The use of Shark Shield’s at this event is a good example of how our proven deterrent technology can be used as a preventative measure to reduce risk to the community. We remain open the opportunity to work with other water sport events and competitions,” added Lyon.
