Splashing and Paddling in Swim for Life

 "'It's created a quintessential Provincetown tradition. It becomes like a reunion for people. People come here from all over the country ... People are committed..."

 — Jay Critchley
Artist/Activist/Organizer of Swim for Life

What is the 36th Annual Swim for Life?

More than 250 swimmesr swam and paddled their way in Provincetown Harbor and Wellfleet's Great Pond during the 36th edition of Swim for Life, a fundraiser for AIDS and women’s health, founded in 1988. Lower Cape News talked with Jay Critchley, artist, activist, and organizer of the Swim for Life & Paddler Flotilla for this years highlights and a bit of event history.

What happens in the Swim for Life event?

The Provincetown Swim & Life and Paddler Flotilla brings together hundreds of people to swim and paddle to support community organizations. Just after Labor Day, swimmers stroke through both Provincetown Harbor and Great Pond in Wellfleet while waving crowds, cowbells, and shoreline support cheer them on. Prayer flags flap in the breeze to honor both those lost and those who provide support.

What does Swim for Life support?

The event started in 1988 to raise funds for AIDs organization but today it benefit multiple organization that support the year round health and well-being of the Provinceton and Cape Cod communities.  This year it topped more than $200,000 in support for local organizations including the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, Helping our Women, Outer Cape Health Services, and many more.