Sports
2011 Naples Island Swims
Hundreds of competitors from age 7 to adult embark on an open water swimming journey Saturday.
Hundreds of competitors in goggles will be plying the waters around our three local islands Saturday during the 2011 Naples Island Swims held in Alamitos Bay.
In this open water swim, there will be five races, each designed for different age groups ranging from the youngest, age 7, to adult. The first race will start at 9:00 a.m., with the last race ending at 10:20 am. Interested competitors can register online at http://www.naplesislandswims.com/or on the day of the race.
“Last year we had over 230 competitors. This year we hope to have about that many, but perhaps more, since the weather and water temperature is more ideal,” said Event Director Merritt Morris.
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At 9:00 am, children ages 11 and up will compete in the first one mile race around Rivo Alto Canal and showcase their swimming abilities. The longest race, the three-mile swim, will begin promptly at 9:20 am followed by other meter events.
Membership in USA Swimming or US Masters Swimming is required for competitors who wish to register and participate in the open water swims. Registration will begin promptly at 7:30am near 545th Pl. and Ocean Blvd on the day of the event.
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This year’s proceeds will go to the Klaus Barth Foundation and Long Beach Shore Aquatics. Residents of Long Beach live by the slogan, “Live Like Klaus.” It is a simple, but assuring reminder for many aspiring athletes, to never give up.
Klaus Barth was an Olympic swimmer, coach at Wilson High School and an exceptional athlete who competed in various aquatic events and Ironman competitions. He kept busy with every chance he could and constantly encouraged and trained youth to excel in aquatic sports. For many residents of Long Beach, Barth was someone who never gave up despite being diagnosed with brain cancer. Barth taught many individuals to stay determined and face hurdles in life with confidence.
The foundation’s goal is to enrich others through athletics and to push for cancer research and other educational programs.
The organization, The Long Beach Shore Aquatics, will also share the proceeds. The organization also aims to help others continue their love for the aquatics in the community.
For an updated list of races and routes, check out: http://www.naplesislandswims.com/.