Visitors to Centre Island Beach in Bayville on Saturday, July 24 saw the iconic red and white tent, again the focal point of the American Red Cross in Nassau County as it celebrated its 21st Annual Swim-A-Cross. From its original beginnings with dedicated swimmers making the mile-long swim from Centre Island Beach to a dock on Centre Island, today it has become a huge family-friendly party on the beach.
What has broadened the event is that swimmers can choose to swim a mile, half mile, or quarter mile. There was a 50-yard swim along the shoreline for swimmers ages 8-12. As you can see from the photographs, families are taking part – each picking their own category of competition
Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) stopped by to say hello to the volunteers and community residents on Saturday, July 24th, at Centre Island Beach. The 21st annual swim a cross took place and many attended in spite of the close to 100 degree weather.
“Live music by Terminal Ileum was playing, gifts were given out, refreshments provided and, most importantly, money was raised for the wonderful work the Red Cross does. Every time we read of fires, accidents, homeless situations, you are almost guaranteed to read about what the Red Cross is doing to help people regain control of their lives. It is such a special group which does so much for so many,” said Legislator Jacobs, “and with not a breeze in sight.”
In spite of the weather – or maybe because of it, there was a good crowd at Centre Island Beach for the swim event. Sam Kille, Red Cross director of public relations said, “Generally, a lot of people wait to register until the day off. Of those who pre-registered, about six failed to show. And yes, it was really hot! Thanks to Coca Cola, we had plenty of bottled water for everyone!”
Photographer Darcy Tabako felt the heat. She said, “I hoped to stay longer at the event, but the heat was a bit overwhelming.” If you remember that day – that is an understatement.
