But it doesn’t stop them from clambering out of bed on a Sunday morning to hit the water at Maitland Pool at  8.15am some swimming and a few laughs.

Make no mistake, it’s as much about fitness, fun and companionship as anything else.

They’re the 43 members of the Maitland Masters and Diggers Swimming Club – and they’re on cloud nine right now after a highly successful weekend of swimming in Port Macquarie.

“There are 25 Masters clubs in the region and we compete against each other,” said Vic Burns, Maitland Diggers Swimming Club president.

“Last weekend we travelled to Port Macquarie to compete and there were 21 clubs represented.

“Anyway, we surprised them all to finish first and boy, didn’t we celebrate. We’ve not finished first before, so it was a great effort.

“We had 20 members in attendance and Port Macquarie, the home team, only had 18. So it was a great turn out by our team and a great effort overall.”

The youngest member of the Maitland squad is 23, so it’s not all about swimming veterans.

But with the oldest member “about 80”, the side has a decidedly experienced look about it.

“Let’s be honest, we basically walk with a limp,” Mr Burns said, chuckling away. “I reckon the average age is 60.”

On top of their recent success, he is now calling for new members.

“We were originally two clubs as the name suggest – the Masters and the Diggers, and we combined.

“Most are people who have been decent swimmers who still want to enjoy the water. A couple have been very good swimmers in their day – but a lot are people who just enjoy the water.  

“We compete over 30 and 50 metres, and have relays as well.

“It’s good fun, and we have eight away swims a year. Tell them to come along.

“They’ll enjoy it for sure.”