Reunited after 58 years

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Jim Portelance and Graham Johnston reunited at the Victoria Crystal Pool on August 29/08 after 58 years.  They met in 1950 at the British Empire Games in New Zealand where they competed against each other in the 1650 yard freestyle.  Portelance represented Canada and Johnston represented South Africa.  Both lads barely made the finals, earning the last two qualifying spots but the race had a fairy tale ending with Johnston winning gold and Portelance silver.   Portelance, 76,  is a semi-retired doctor living in the West Shore of Victoria and swims three times a week with the Victoria Crystal Silver Streaks, a masters swim club with an average age of 70.  Johnston, 77, a retired heavy equipment sales representative, now lives and swims in Houston, Texas and is a member of MOST (Masters of South Texas) and last month competed in the US Masters Long Course Nationals in Portland, Oregon. Johnston, accompanied by his wife and athletic supporter, Janis, is visiting and swimming with friends, Dan and Jackie Eddy of Sooke, who he met at the World Huntsman Senior Games in Utah.  Portelance and Johnston swam a 2400m hour long practice session with the Silver Steaks, teasing each other with their speed and skill. They will next meet this coming October at the Huntsman World Seniors Games in St. George, Utah, competing in the 75 to 79 age group.