The YMCA of Greenwich held its 3rd annual “Y Mile Swim” this past Sunday. Sponsored by Combine Training, the event raised over $12,000 for the Annual fund’s “No Swimmer Left Behind” initiative.
The YMCA of Greenwich Holds 3rd Annual Y Mile Swim
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The new initiative ensures that everyone in the Greenwich community has the opportunity to learn to swim by providing scholarship assistance for the Y’s various swim programs.
The fun family event had 82 swimmers of all ages and abilities participating in a mile long swim race.
Kent Osband finished first in the Men’s division with a time of 20:14.3 and Kara Mendelsohn placed first in the Women’s with a time of 22:15.8. Stephan Todorovic received top scores in the 18 and under with a time of 19:45.1. Eight-year-old Liam Brown was the top individual fundraiser for the event, tallying up over $4,000 in support dollars. Liam and his dad Derek completed the race relay style, alongside his three-year old sister Abby. This is the third year the Brown family has competed and fundraised for the Y’s Mile Swim.
Neil Isford, Eric Ellison, Pat Francois, and Megan Pavia. Contributed photo
“The Mile Swim was a huge success this year.” said Kevin Switek, Director of Aquatics. “The pool deck was packed with swimmers and supporters representing our YMCA Masters, staff, and membership. Because of their support, we raised resources that will provide all youth with the opportunity to learn how to swim in time for summer.”
In addition to the races, participants enjoyed refreshments provided by Tropical Smoothies and bounced on the Y’s inflatable fun run.
Aquatics Director Kevin Switek and YMCA Member Gregg Febbraio. Febrraio swam 3.3 miles, the longest of the day. Contributed photo
Three year old Abby Brown finishes the Y Mile Swim
“As a tri-athlete, swimming has always been a big part of my life.” Said Craig Vitale, owner of Combine Training. “Now, with three young children, it is a priority for me that they learn water safety from a young age. We live in a waterfront town, so it’s important to have initiatives like “No Swimmer Left Behind” to make sure all of our youth will be safe in the water,” Vitale added.
The YMCA of Greenwich was founded more than 99 years ago in 1916. Today, it is the largest community-based organization in Greenwich with more than 5,000 members dedicated to healthy living, youth development and social responsibility through athletics and life-long learning programs in order to nurture the potential of all in our community. To learn more about the YMCA of Greenwich, membership and its numerous wellness programs, visit: www.greenwichymca.org.