Swim-a-thon raises money for Special Olympics

LAKEVILLE — Sunday, Oct. 11,  marked the 15th anniversary of The Hotchkiss School Swim-a-thon, a charity event that is expected to raise at least $4,000 for the Northwest Corner’s Special Olympics swim program.

The event at the school’s Hixon Pool attracted 82 swimmers, including students, teachers, staff members, faculty/staff children, and 14 members of the Special Olympics swim team. Event organizer Keith Moon said  the turnout was very similar to previous years.

Money raised at the swim-a-thon will help fund programs for the Special Olympics team.

The event usually sees strong participation from the Hotchkiss aquatic teams, including the water polo and swimming teams. Ryan Jones, a member of the water polo team, swam 80 widths of the pool and raised approximately $200.

Making connections between Hotchkiss students and the Special Olympics athletes is one of the best aspects of the event, said Moon.

Members of the Special Olympics team also enjoyed the event, said Rob Gerowe, the regional director for Connecticut Special Olympics.

“They had a great time,� said Gerowe. “Some didn’t want to get out of the pool.�

Sunday featured participants of all ages, including faculty child Niko Vavpetic, who is not yet 2 years old.

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