Swimmers Test Skills at Boyd Memorial Swim This Sunday

Inspired by the Olympics? Ocean swimming enthusiasts will get a chance to test their skills, speed, courage and endurance during the annual Boyd Memorial swim in Seaside Heights this Sunday and you're invited. The event, hosted by the Life Guard Association of Seaside Heights, is a one-mile aquatic marathon taking on the natural elements of the Atlantic Ocean.

Beach Patrol Captain Rob Connor says "it's tough. When you do an ocean swim, it's one of the toughest things out there. You have to fight the tides, the weather, the surf. So it's a special person that does a one mile swim."

However, Connor says the people who come out annually to compete will surprise you. He says they get teens as young as 14 and Seniors in their 80's who train for the event. However, he says the beach patrol Life Guards have volunteered their time and will be closely monitoring the swimmers for safety.

Connors says the Boyd Memorial Swim began about 10 years ago to honor three brothers who led the Seaside Heights Beach Patrol for decades and in their own ways, left an indelible mark in the borough and on beach patrolling in the state of New Jersey. He says former Beach Patrol Captain John J. Boyd created the water rescue group 70 years ago and ran it for 50 years. Hugh J. Boyd was the beach patrol's assistant Captain and long-time School Superintendent and the local elementary school is his namesake. Joe J. Boyd was a Lieutenant and the Central Regional Football Field is named after him.

Connor says you can register at the event from 4 to 6 p.m. at Hiering Avenue and the boardwalk. Swimmers pay $20 which includes entrance to the beach barbecue, an awards ceremony, food and a souvenir t-shirt. However, the actual marathon kicks off at 7 p.m. on the Lincoln Avenue Beach.

Following the swim, Townsquare Media's Classic Rock Station 105.7 The Hawk will be hosting the award ceremony at the beach barbecue. Non-race participants can pay $10 entry fee and can purchase a souvenir t-shirt for $10.

For more information about the swim contact Captain Rob Connor at 732-793-4646 or visit www.exit82.com or 1-800-732-7467.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School.