A: First, all the proceeds go to a great cause. Helping the YMCA provide free swim lessons to those in need. Second, its held in such a wonderful town. Third, who doesn't like swimming?
Q: Can a younger swimmer participate?
A: The minimum age for the 3.2 competitive swim is 13 years old and the Fun Swim, 10 years old. HOWEVER if a swimmer slightly younger than 13 wants to compete in the 3.2 mile race, they will need a letter and/or call from their Swimming Coach to the event director, Denice Fanning, stating that they can swim 3.2 miles for the 3.2-Mile Swim.
Q: Where is the race packet pickup?
A: Friday, May 18 from 3 - 7 pm at the Wardle Family Y in Port Royal or pick up race day at check-in at the downtown Beaufort marina dock starting at 7 am.
Q: Will there be a vehicle bringing stuff back from the start?
A: You will be given a draw string bag to put all your stuff in at check in. If you take the shuttle to the race start and want to leave your stuff in the bag, all bags will be transported back to the finish at the downtown Beaufort Marina for you to pick up upon completion of the race.
Q: Is the water cold? Can I wear a wetsuit?
A: The water is usually in the mid to upper 70's. You are more than welcome to swim with a wet suit if you choose in the 3.2-Mile Swim, but you will be ineligible for awards. Wet suits, fins and snorkels are allowed in the 1-mile Fun Swim, as it is a non-competitive event. Rafts, noodles and other flotation devices ARE NOT allowed in the Fun Swim.
Q: What's the deal with the tide...with or against the current?
A: The River Swim takes place while the tide starts to go out, this means that you will get a little friendly help from the river to speed you along.
Q: Can spectators see the race?
A: Friends, family, and other spectators can view the race finish along the Waterfront Park and downtown marina. They will be able to oversee the swimmers finishing upon the boat landing and cheer them on!
Q: Will there be food and drinks at the finish?
A: We will have healthy snacks and some light finger food for the swimmers at the finish of the race. Plenty of water and drinks will also be available. Be sure to stick around, grab some food and drink and await the results, perhaps you will get a bobble head trophy! We will not have any free refreshments for the spectators, however Kona Ice will be on hand so spectators may purchase cold, healthy slushies from their food truck.