The Second Annual Enid Dullea Length-of-the-Lake Swim took place on Sunday, August 20. Nine swimmers, each with a watchful kayaker, plus three larger following boats, made a spirited and friendly group. During the brief pre-swim gathering at Pennesseewassee Park, Linda McSherry, Enid Dullea’s daughter, shared a few photographs of her mother who regularly swan the length of the lake while training for the 1936 Olympics. Lee Dassler, Executive Director of the Western Foothills LandTrust, helped to coordinate the event and reminded participants to stay safe and hydrated.

The swim benefited the Lakes Association of Norway (LAON) whose mission is to keep the lake healthy. The swimmers were asked to consider donating $20; their generous donations were more than double expectations.

Two LAON members, Trish Carr and Hilary Ware, brought a sign highlighting LAON’s work for “birds, beasts and beings.” The sign was attached to a large pink inflatable flamingo to be towed during the swim. As is fitting for Norway, the float was always referred to as “the loon” by everyone present.

After being driven to the north end of Pennesseewassee Lake, the group swam 3.1 miles to the beach. They were cheered on by onlookers from approximately 20 docks.  Since the day was so warm, no one needed to use their wetsuit. Only one swimmer used fins.  Another swimmer took a little break mid swim to climb up onto her dock to stretch while her husband/kayaker got a quick sip of coffee. All good! Everyone just enjoyed the morning.

There will be a Third Annual Swim next year, hopefully with even more participants and a few relay teams, but definitely with the same noncompetitive fun vibe.

By Susan Jacoby, LAON Outreach Coordinator