Gazelle Joins The Buzzard’s Bay Swim To Raise Awareness For Clean Water

With the 31st Annual Buzzards Bay Swim right around the corner, I decided to contribute to the Buzzards Bay Coalition in a new way this year. Instead of merely standing on the sandy shoreline of Fort Phoenix, waving in the swimmers across the finish line, I've committed to getting my toes wet and participating in the 2024 swim. I felt it was more impactful to actively engage in the cause rather than just promoting it.

The Buzzards Bay Swim is an open water event that supports the Buzzards Bay Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting clean water in our region. It's a unique point-to-point swim across outer New Bedford Harbor from Cisco Brewers Kitchen & Bar in New Bedford to Fort Phoenix Beach in Fairhaven.

With a strong safety patrol in place, participants swim 1.2 miles through the harbor and channel, passing landmarks like the iconic Butler Flats Lighthouse and the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier. Over on the sandy beach of Fort Phoenix, there will be a beach party celebration featuring live music, made-to-order pancakes, gourmet coffee, and local beer from Buzzards Bay Brewery.

In preparation for June 22nd, I've been diligently training in the gym, at the pool (thanks to New Bedford High School), and recently in open waters along the Fairhaven coastline utilizing my new wetsuit (thanks to Bob's Sea & Ski). With my wife accompanying me in her kayak, providing support and inspiration, I'm driven to cross that finish line, no matter what.

While I've always been confident in my swimming abilities, tackling longer distances is uncharted territory for me. Though I have the endurance for long distances, swimming in open water presents new challenges. Despite this, I've embraced the learning curve, adapting to waves, wind, and currents as part of my training journey.

I will say this: it's disheartening to see how little regard some people have for our local ecosystem. Do we not cherish the refreshing waters of Fort Phoenix or West Beach on hot days? Do we not understand the importance of clean water in Greater New Bedford and beyond? Pollution and toxins threaten our beaches and waterways every day, jeopardizing the habitats of wildlife and marine life.

Let's not overlook the significance of our environment. The next time you spot litter in the water, consider its impact on our precious ecosystem. We have a responsibility to protect our planet before it's too late.

On a final note, I have two requests for those reading this: Firstly, tune in to Channel 12 WPRI news on Friday, May 17th, at 6:00 PM for a feature on the Buzzards Bay Swim as part of their 'Street Stories' segment. Award-winning journalist Mike Montecalvo and Emmy/Murrow award-winning chief videographer Johnny Villella have graciously helped raise awareness about this event starring yours truly. Secondly, if you're free on the morning of June 22nd at 7:30 AM, come down to Fort Phoenix in Fairhaven and cheer on the swimmers as they complete their journey. Your support means a great deal to all of us who have dedicated time and effort to prepare for this event.