An upcoming fundraiser will give attendees the chance to swim or paddle across the widest part of Cayuga Lake.
On August 17, the Aurora Volunteer Fire Department will hold its first Swim Across Cayuga Lake fundraiser. Speaking with Finger Lakes News Radio, Sarah Homick, the department’s public information officer, said that participants will check in at 7:30a at the Wells College boathouse dock in the village. From there, boats will transport swimmers and paddlers to the Seneca County side of the lake who will swim or paddle back to the dock.
“We want swimmers to swim the 3.5 miles across the lake but we’re also opening it up for kayakers or paddleboarders,” said Homick. “We’re excited for everybody to come and enjoy the fun.”
Spectators are encouraged to meet at the dock to cheer on returning participants. Homick expects the event to last until approximately 10:00a.
Homick adds that safety is a top priority for planners. Paddlers and swimmers under 13 will be required to wear lifejackets and all swimmers will be given swim caps to make them more visible to safety teams following in motorboats. An ambulance crew will be on standby in case of an emergency.
If water conditions prove unsafe on the day of the event, a rain date is planned for the following day.
Funds raised from registrations and sponsorships will go to help the department purchase a new ambulance to replace its current 2002 ambulance.
“Every ambulance we’ve ever owned has been purchased through donations from the community and this is one way that we’re trying to raise money for that… We’re starting to see some things that need to be fixed on [the current ambulance] and we’re keeping up with all the upgrades but it’s time to purchase a new one so we can all be safe and have the most proper tools for the jobs we need to do.”
Though this year’s event will see funds specifically go toward the purchase of a new ambulance, Homick stated the department is exploring the possibility of turning it into an annual community event with proceeds assisting the department.
While registration will be available on the day of the event, the department is encouraging preregistration so it can estimate attendance and plan safety efforts accordingly.
Registration can be done here.
The Aurora Volunteer Fire Department is a 100% volunteer department that provides emergency fire, rescue, and medical services to the community free of charge.
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