Sixteen-year-old Anna Wayne of Wilmington completed a double-crossing in 4 hours, 45 minutes Monday to highlight the 2006 Lake Waccamaw Labor Day Swim.

The annual five-mile swim across the historic lake drew eight participants and all finished. Heavy morning fog prevented the traditional 8 a.m., start but conditions cleared soon after and the event got under way at 8:30. The swim began at the lake’s dam and concluded at Johnny McNeill’s pier.

The Labor Day Swim at Lake Waccamaw is now in its fifth decade, having been founded by the late Lee J. Greer.

Another highlight of the event was the marking of the 20th anniversary of the first swim for twins James and Walter Palmer. The Palmer twins of Whiteville made their first crossings as nine-year-olds in 1986. The Palmers were the only male participants in this year’s swim.

Walter, who still resides in Whiteville, has competed in every swim since while James, who lives in Hendersonville, made his fifth crossing.

Julie Stocks, a longtime coordinator and committee member for the event, made her 11th crossing and her first since 1997.

Others completing the five-mile swim were Courtney Steed of Lake Waccamaw, Ashley Heath of Raleigh, Rachel Pence of Cleveland and Nancy Wayne Crabtree of Whiteville.

“Once the fog lifted, it was perfect day for the swim,” Mrs. Stocks said. “We were so excited to have a 16-year-old girl come out and swim 10 miles. That has always been a noted accomplishment

“We were a little disappointed that we didn’t have more swimmers this year”, Stocks said, “but it was still an outstanding day for everyone involved.”

Stephen Vick, grandson of the event’s founder, presented the Lee J. Greer Memorial medals to all eight participants following the event.

Swim committee members are Stocks, Robert Eplee, Frank Gault, Junius Lee, Johnny McNeill and Gary Talbert.