World records will be on the line when EA Networks Centre hosts the South Island short course masters championships this weekend.

It is an important event for the masters swimming community and a world record attempt will be made in the 800m freestyle.

The Ashburton event is one of only two sanctioned masters meets in New Zealand this year and the only meet in Canterbury offering the opportunity to swim for New Zealand and world records.

About 80 swimmers, between 20 and 90 plus, and their partners and families, are expected in Ashburton for the weekend.

Sport and Recreation Manager Richard Wood said it was a great opportunity for the pool to host what promised to be an exciting event.

“There will be at least one attempt on a world record and the meet offers a chance for swimmers from all over the country to compete against each other, to set personal best times and have a go at some records.

“It will also have a positive economic impact on the district as all our visitors dine out and shop in the local shops.”

The technical director for the meet is Ashburton district’s Helen Tait, a qualified New Zealand swim national referee, while the Ashburton Swim Team will assist with other duties and timekeeping.

Most swimmers will arrive in Ashburton on Friday, with racing sessions on Friday night, Saturday morning and Saturday night. Swimmers attend a dinner at the Hotel Ashburton on Saturday night.

The meet is held annually and will be in Christchurch next year.

Mr Wood said Ashburton hosted the championships a few years ago with great success.

“It is a fantastic pool for competitions, with 10 lanes and capacity to host at least 100 swimmers and we look forward to some great swimming over the weekend.”

This event received $2000 from the Mid Canterbury Regional Event Fund.