Last Call to Register for the 31st Annual Buzzards Bay Swim on June 22
With less than two weeks remaining until the 31st Annual Buzzards Bay Swim, swimmers are being reminded to sign-up at www.savebuzzardsbay.org/swim. The event will be held the morning of Saturday, June 22nd with proceeds supporting the Buzzards Bay Coalition and their efforts to protect the region’s environment.
“The Swim is one of the most fun and best-run events in New England,” said 11-time participant Rob Thieler of Falmouth.
Established in 1993, the Buzzards Bay Swim is an outdoor adventure suitable for swimmers of all abilities and fitness levels aged 11 and up. Against the stunning backdrop of Buzzards Bay, participants embark on a scenic 1.2-mile point-to-point open water course, starting from Cisco Brewers Kitchen and Bar in New Bedford's South End. The route showcases breathtaking views, passing by landmarks such as the historic Butler Flats Lighthouse and the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier before finishing at Fort Phoenix State Reservation in Fairhaven.
“The Buzzards Bay Swim is a unique event,” said long-time participant David LaPalme of Dartmouth. “It is the only day of the year that you can cross the New Bedford Harbor… Usually, I stop around the lighthouse and just take a look around feeling pretty fortunate to get in another Swim in the Bay.”
First-time and novice swimmers can also opt for additional support by swimming alongside a personal kayak escort.
When swimmers cross the finish line, they will be greeted by cheering supporters and awarded with a custom finisher medal and event tee. The festivities continue with live music, a hot pancake breakfast, Jim’s Organic Coffee, Buzzards Bay Brewing beer, and an awards ceremony with prizes.
Registration for the Buzzards Bay Swim is $25, with swimmers committing to raise a minimum of $300 each ($150 for youth) with all funds directly benefitting the Buzzards Bay Coalition.
The Buzzards Bay Swim is one of two signature outdoor fundraising events hosted by the Buzzards Bay Coalition. The other is the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride, a 100, 75, or 35 mile bike ride that traverses the Buzzards Bay watershed from Little Compton to Woods Hole. The 2024 Watershed Ride is scheduled for Sunday, October 6th. For more information, contact the Coalition at events@savebuzzardsbay.org or (508) 999-6363.
About Buzzards Bay Coalition: The Buzzards Bay Coalition is a nonprofit organization supported by its membership, dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and sustainable use and enjoyment of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. With a mission to enhance the health of the Bay ecosystem for all, the Coalition engages in outdoor exploration, preservation, research, and advocacy efforts, supported by over 12,000 members.
