Luke Kilgour-Kelly - Ocean Swimmer
Local Nelson swimmer Luke Kilgour-Kelly has over the years taken the ocean swim series by storm.
At 20, he tore apart a field of 564 of the country’s best long distance swimmers to win the 3.3km Interislander Capital Classic, race three of the Banana Boat Ocean Swim Series in Wellington.
In 2018, Luke came back to competitive back to swimming with a vengeance, leading the Port Nelson swim series after a series of thrilling sprint finishes taking most by just a second or two.
The ability to rise to the sprint finish stood Kelly in good stead in the Wellington race from Frank Kitts Park to the Point Jerningham lighthouse, then around the fountain to the beach by Freyberg Pool.
His heroics earned the Nelson swimmer the gold medal for overall winner as well as gold in the M20-24 age group. Luke is a strong advocate of daily nutritional support with Mountain Red to support his strength, stamina and post-race recovery.
2026 Victory in Auckland
🏊♂️ Celebrating Excellence at the Rangitoto Swim — Congratulations Luke
What an extraordinary day on the water at the Interislander Rangitoto Swim — one of New Zealand’s most iconic and demanding ocean swim challenges.
The legendary 4.6km crossing from Rangitoto Island to St Heliers Beach once again showcased the very best of New Zealand’s open-water swimming community — resilience, preparation, and pure determination.
👏 Congratulations to every swimmer who took on the challenge.
To start — and finish — this event is a remarkable achievement that reflects dedication, courage, and months of disciplined training.
🏆 Special congratulations to Luke Kilgour-Kelly on an outstanding overall victory.
Winning the Rangitoto Swim is an exceptional accomplishment, demanding endurance, focus, and elite performance in one of the country’s most respected open-water events.
At Mountain Red, we deeply respect athletes who push their limits and pursue excellence — whether at elite level or personal best level. Events like this embody the spirit of strength, resilience, and commitment that defines New Zealand sport.
Congratulations Luke — and well done to every swimmer, organiser, volunteer, and supporter who made today such an unforgettable event.
🌊 A legendary course. A world-class performance. A champion result.
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