swimmers,” said event co-organizer Jonelle Bowers of The Watershed Center. “We also need help with planning and on-theground coordination the day of the swim to make sure we have a safe swim and a great celebration afterward.” The Watershed Center’s goal is to raise $15,000 and create an annual signature sporting event that attracts locals and visitors alike. “All of us in this region know our water quality, economy and quality of life are inextricably linked,” said Crissman. “Our hope with this event is to not only raise money to support our work to protect Grand Traverse Bay, but to increase our reach to communicate the importance of clean, healthy water and why it’s worth protecting.” For more information and to register visit www.swimforgtbay.com. Want to volunteer? Call 231-935-1514 ext. 5 or email volunteers@swimforgtbay.com.
Event at a Glance 8 a.m. Saturday, August 13, 2016 Start: Greilickville Harbor Park, Elmwood Township End: Volleyball Beach, Traverse City After Party: Next door at Clinch Park Swimmer Registration: $45 Swimmer Fundraising: $150 via Crowdrise Support Kayak Registration: $25 (no fundraising for kayakers who serve solely as support of an individual swimmer) Teams: Up to 6 can fundraise collectively More info: swimforgtbay.com. Y Triathlon Training and Masters Swimming: gybayymca.com grandtraversemasters,org
MAY/JUNE 2016 | BAY LIFE NORTH
35