Chappaqua Swimmers, Team Karen and David, “Swim Across America”

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August 6, 2010
by Carrie Dillon

On Saturday, July 17, 20 members of Chappaqua Swim team participated in a “Swim Across America” event at the Orienta Beach Club in Mamaroneck.  Members of the team elected to swim either a one-mile or half-mile, to raise money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment.

Swim Across America, Inc. sponsors events across the country. With the help of hundreds of volunteers as well as past and current Olympians, this organization is helping to find a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach, and direct service.

“We formed Team Karen and David in memory of my sister, Karen, and Molly and Henry Simon’s father, David,” said Dan Levy, coach of the Chappaqua Swim and Dive team.  “It was amazing to see 20 team members from ages seven to 16 come out to swim in the very first year.  It gives them the opportunity to show that their love for swimming goes beyond competing and that they can also use their abilities to raise money in the fight against cancer.”

Together, the 20-person team named “Team Karen and David” raised over $9,249 for the charity. The team included: Lindsey Brosnan, William Crainer, Katie Duncalf, Marina Kern, Dan Levy, Michael Lyons, Kasia Malendowicz, Bobbie Pearce, Stephen Pearce, Walter Pearce, Kevin Posner, Katie Posner, Susannah Rudel, Henry Simon, Tommy St. Vincent, Isabella Weiner, Joe Weiner, Margaux Weiner, Madison Yates, and Wyatt Yates.

“The pool was really nice and it felt really good to get money to help fight against cancer, said Wyatt Yates, a 7-year old participant. “I want to do it again next year, but will definitely swim a whole mile!”

Donations can still be made by clicking SwimAcrossAmerica.

Carrie Dillon is a 11-year resident of Chappaqua and parent of two Chappaqua Swim Team members.