I don’t know much about this swim, but if you are in the area and want to participate, check out the contact info at the bottom.
Cheers,
Rob
(Thursday, July 15, 2010 – Orillia, ON) – With the warmer weather and water temperatures, swimmers have begun taking to local lakes instead of the pool in preparation for the 2010 Sun City Swim.
A long-standing tradition in the Sunshine City, participation in the event has grown over the years. It has become a draw for local athletes and swimmers training for the next big race, as well as out-of-towners that come up from the city to get out on the water.
Taking place on Saturday, August 7, the Sun City Swim is making a splash for the second year in a row for equipment and programs at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.
“The hospital has over $8-million in urgent equipment needs,” says Nicole McCahon, executive director of the OSMH Foundation. “In order to make sure our patients receive the highest quality care, we need to fundraise in support of the programs and services at OSMH that continue to provide care close to home.”
No matter what age or swim level, the Sun City Swim has always left swimmers smiling and with a feeling of accomplishment. While the swim across Lake Couchiching is not a race, it is definitely a good challenge between swimmers young and old.
“The popularity of the swim stems from the fact that it is a fun event, it isn’t a race,” explains McCahon. “It’s just a fun way to raise money and awareness for a great cause – that being our local hospital. Everyone is a winner.”
This year, the OSMH Foundation is introducing another aspect to the open water swim. In addition to the four kilometre swim across Lake Couchiching, a one kilometre Fern Resort Loop will be added for swimmers hesitant on crossing the lake.
“We acknowledge that four kilometres is a long way to ask people to swim, it takes up to two hours to cross the lake,” admits McCahon. “By offering a one kilometre swim, we hope to attract those who might be unable to participate in the longer swim.”
Last year the event attracted over 25 swimmers and raised close to $8,000. This year the OSMH Foundation has set the bar high, with hopes to raise over $25,000 for equipment and programs at OSMH. In order to be successful the Foundation will need support from area businesses and individuals.
“Whether you want to swim, pledge a donation to help a swimmer reach the beach, or participate with financial sponsorship, any and all support is welcomed,” says McCahon.
More information is available at www.osmh.on.ca/osmhfoundation.aspx. Swimmers should register before July 23, 2010 for a chance to win the Early Bird Prize. Contact us at 705-325-6464 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation is a proud partner of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital and the people of Orillia and North Simcoe/Muskoka. The foundation provides funds to the hospital to buy medical equipment, sustain programs and assist the hospital in maintaining its position as a leader in providing quality community based healthcare.
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For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Terry Dyni, Director, Community Relations
T: (705) 327-9179