Local swimmers train for upcoming fundraising event

It’s a huge fundraising effort that makes a “splash” every year, and right now, Metro Atlanta swimmers are diving into Lake Allatoona to prepare for this year’s Swim Across America Atlanta Open Water Swim.

This year’s Open Water Swim will take place on September 23rd at Lake Lanier, and will raise funds for the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorder Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.  Swim Across America hosts open water and pool swims around the country, all of which serve as fundraisers for cancer research, and the Atlanta Open Water Swim has become one of the top events in terms of fundraising and attendance.  Thus far, the swim has raised $1.25 million for the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, with a goal this year of raising $500,000.  In the weeks leading up to the Open Water Swim, there are several “prep clinics” taking place around North Georgia, including weekly clinics at the Red Top Mountain State Park Beach on Lake Allatoona.

Good Day Atlanta’s Paul Milliken spent years as a competitive swimmer, and couldn’t wait to “jump in” and learn more about the Swim Across America efforts in Atlanta.  He spent the morning at Lake Allatoona getting a look at how men and women are preparing for the big day.  He also spent some time hanging out with amazing local teen Grace Bunke, and to support her swim and her team, click here.  There will also be a Swim Across America clinic in her honor on August 13th at Greater Atlanta Christian School.  More information on the clinic can be found here.