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Swim A Mile for Hospice to take place Aug. 5

Posted 7/8/17

HANNAWA FALLS -- Dozens of swimmers will gather at Postwood Park to take to the water Saturday, Aug. 5 to Swim A Mile for Hospice The eighth annual Swim a Mile begins at 8 a.m. Swimmers will depart …

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Swim A Mile for Hospice to take place Aug. 5

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HANNAWA FALLS -- Dozens of swimmers will gather at Postwood Park to take to the water Saturday, Aug. 5 to Swim A Mile for Hospice

The eighth annual Swim a Mile begins at 8 a.m. Swimmers will depart from the beach, navigating the half mile or full mile course around Hannawa Pond and returning to the beach. Last year, this non-competitive event brought together 72 recreational swimmers, some as young as 12 and other up into their seventies. Participants will be grouped by ability and will complete the course at their own pace.

“Many changes have taken place throughout the history of the event” said organizer Kellie Hitchman. “We have listened to participants to try and change things for the better. The option of a half mile course was offered two years ago, along with that, the age of participation was also lowered to 12 years of age. With these options, the level of interest in the event really exploded” Hitchman said. “This year, we’re hoping to have a great combination of the returning swimmers from previous years joined by more newcomers to the event. I can’t stress enough what an incredible experience Swim a Mile for Hospice is for those who participate; whether it is as a swimmer, a member of the safety team in a kayak or boat, as a waterside volunteer or as a spectator. The atmosphere on the beach all morning is indescribable.”

“Since the event began, nearly 4,000 donations have been made to support hospice care totaling nearly $200,000. These numbers are absolutely extraordinary,” she said.

Last year, 72 swimmers participated and raised more than $26,000 to support patient and family services.

In their eighth year, Hitchman is confident “we are well within reach of hitting that mark. With the continued support of our community, there is no doubt we will get there.”

The option of testing the event out with the half mile course will again be offered, while the minimum age of participation will stay at 12 years old. “We feel its very important to include as many people who are interested as possible” said Hitchman. “We are confident that once they experience the camaraderie and support of other participants on the beach they will be hooked” she said. “The great thing about Swim a Mile is that its really for anyone. We do have triathletes who participate, but we also have a number of non- athletes who do it for a personal challenge or to remember a loved one. Now is a great time to grab a friend and start training. Swimming a couple of times a week will have participants ready to go on Aug. 5.”

Safety remains a top concern. A fleet of kayaks, power boats, lifeguards and official safety personnel will be on hand to make sure everyone gets back to the beach.

Each swimmer is asked to raise at least $100 for Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley; youth swimmers age 12 to 17 are asked to raise $50. This includes their $25 registration fee. Swimmers, boaters and other volunteers will enjoy a light breakfast and will receive a t-shirt and other tokens for their participation. Prizes will also be awarded to the top three fundraisers.

Hitchman explained that when swimmers register online, the website creates a personal fundraising page for them, through which they can link to social media or email it to friends and family to make fundraising efforts easier.

As an added incentive, the school whose students as a group raise the most money for Swim a Mile for Hospice will display a special trophy at their school until the next year’s event. Last year, Potsdam Central School defended their title as the top fundraising school.

When asked why she was participating again this year, one swimmer replied, “After my first year I just knew I wanted to sign up again. I just love the spirit of it. I love everyone getting together to contribute towards such a great cause while simultaneously having an absolute blast! Couldn't think of a better way to spend a beautiful summer morning.”

To register for Swim a Mile for Hospice, go to www.swimamileforhospice.org or call the Hospice office in Potsdam at (315) 265-3105.