The 2024 Swim Across America charity event raised money for cancer research at the Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island and took place at Roger Wheeler State Beach in Narragansett on Saturday, Sept. 7.
The University of Rhode Island women’s swimming and diving team were among dozens of teams and nearly 625 athletes from surrounding states who participated in the event. Most were teams from schools including Bryant University, the University of Connecticut and Western New England University.
Julianna Tyler, a second-year student and member of the URI women’s swimming and diving team, was one such participant.
“I would definitely do it again,” Tyler said. “It’s an awesome event, it was for a good cause and it was fun doing it with my team.”
While the members of URI women’s swim and dive were not required to participate, all 25 were present at the event, whether they were able to swim or not, according to Tyler. Those who were unable to participate in the swim were still actively involved by helping on the sidelines. Despite being one of the smaller teams participating, Rhody women’s swimming and diving was able to raise a total of $4,198.67.
This was the team’s first practice of the year. Fourth-year URI student, Jacqueline Triglia, has participated in the event since she joined the team four years ago.
“It’s been going on for a couple years and it’s a nice event and pretty chill first practice,” Triglia said. “We were all happy to be there.”
Prior to the start of the swim, several guest speakers were given the opportunity to speak about the cause. They detailed their experience with the event and also how it was impactful for them. Notable speakers included patients from the Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island.
Once participants were lined up on the beach, they were separated into waves in order to prevent overcrowding in the water. Teams were given the option to participate in the mile swim, half mile swim or quarter mile swim. Each of these were opportunities for athletes to earn money for the charity.
“It’s been a really great event that I’ve participated in for the past four years,” Triglia said. “It’s a great way to do something active with the team or with friends while also raising money and awareness for cancer or a good cause. I would do it again for the fun of it.”
A recent addition to this year’s event was the Splash and Dash, a couple yard swim from buoy to buoy. While still a way to raise money, it was also a way for younger swimmers to dip their toes in the water and show their support.
After swimmers reached the first buoy, the next group was directed into the water until all teams had completed the entirety of the swim. At the conclusion of the event, participants were provided with food and towels as a thank you for contributing their time.
The event lasted around two hours, but outside viewers can still donate on the Swim Across America website . As of Sept. 12, the event had raised $289,049, with their goal being $300,000.