AEGiS-BAYW: Swim for Life promotes creative crossings

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Swim for Life promotes creative crossings

Bay Windows - July 13, 2006
Ethan Jacobs, ejacobs@baywindows.com

Among the expected hundreds of swimmers participating in the 19th annual Swim for Life Sept. 9, at least one will be taking an unorthodox route across Provincetown Harbor: underwater. Jay Critchley, one of the founders and lead organizers of Swim for Life, said one participant has vowed to swim the 1.4 miles across the harbor underwater, with the help of diving gear. It's not the first time someone has taken an unorthodox approach to the annual fundraiser. Last year one participant was joined in the swim by his dog, who also swam the whole way across.

"So we encourage creative crossings," said Critchley.

Last year more than 300 people swam in the event, but Critchley said there are plenty of opportunities to participate for both strong swimmers and those unable to swim across the harbor. Critchley said about 200 volunteers help make the event run smoothly each year, including kayakers who shadow the swimmers to help them if they need a rest along the way. Some of the kayakers also accept pledges to benefit the event, which provides funding to the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, Helping Our Women, Outer Cape Health Services, Cape & Islands Gay Straight Alliance, Provincetown Rescue Squad and Lower Cape Ambulance.

Critchley said people can sign up and turn in pledges right up to the day of the event. Last year's Swim for Life raised $150,000.

For more information visit www.swim4life.org or call 508.487.1930.

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