The Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) annual fundraiser, Swim and SUP the Sound, is slated to take place on Sunday, June 4, 2023. Photo: VISAR

According to a press release from VISAR, this year’s event which is slated to commence at The Bitter End Yacht Club and conclude at Leverick Bay, is set to include a half-mile, one-mile and two-mile swim as well as a 2.5-mile SUP course. Photo: VISAR

This year’s event is sponsored by Carey Olsen with support from Leverick Bay Marina, Sunchaser Scuba, Dive BVI, Oil Nut Bay, Blue Rush Watersports, Necker Island, TerraForma, Virgin Textiles and Romasco. Photo: VISAR

According to a press release from VISAR, this year’s event which is slated to commence at The Bitter End Yacht Club and conclude at Leverick Bay, is set to include a half-mile, one-mile and two-mile swim as well as a 2.5-mile SUP course.

This will mark the first time since Hurricane Irma that the 2-mile and SUP race will commence from the location.

The fundraiser which has been in existence for over 12 years is one of the non-profit core events of the season.

In 2020, due to COVID-19 the race was held virtually with over 145 people participating from six different countries while in 2021 it was held in person, reportedly to a sold out crowd.

According to VISAR, the majority of its $250,000 yearly operating budget is funded through the $2 per person programme which is collected by the local charter companies.

Fundraiser for new vessel

This year, VISAR said it is also fundraising to replace its search and rescue vessel Spirit of Tortola.

It is relying heavily on the funds raised at the Swim and SUP the Sound event to help towards these endeavors.

“Swim and SUP the Sound is a fantastic day on the water for everyone involved from the race participants, to the volunteers and those enjoying Family Fun Day. However, it’s also an important day; as the funds raised will help our dedicated crew members in our mission of ‘Saving Lives at Sea.’ We’d like to thank everyone who helps to make Swim and SUP the Sound a success,” said Gerard Kraakman, President and Incident Command Officer.

Activities usually include beach and pool games, arts and crafts and slime making.

For those who prefer to spend the day on land, they can join the ‘Cheer Squad’ for a fee which includes ferry transportation and lunch.

Included in the $100 race entry fee are a day of transportation to/from Road Town to Leverick Bay, Leverick’s Famous BBQ lunch, a goodie bag and finishers’ medal.

Full details and event registration are available on VISAR’s website at https://visar.org/news/2023-swim-and-sup-the-sound.

This year’s event is sponsored by Carey Olsen with support from Leverick Bay Marina, Sunchaser Scuba, Dive BVI, Oil Nut Bay, Blue Rush Watersports, Necker Island, TerraForma, Virgin Textiles and Romasco.