CANOE ALLEY SPORTS RESULTS, EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH & MORE
Swift Strokes The 107th Castle Swim saw 38 participants, including several keiki, and the result was a remarkable race. By Candes Gentry ➳ The Castle Swim, an iconic event hosted by the Outrigger Canoe Club (OCC), was first established in 1917 as part of a month-long aquatic carnival. This year’s swim celebrated over a century of tradition and competition. The race has its roots in the club’s early history, showcasing the talents of its members, many of whom were Olympic and AAU champions. This year, the Castle Swim took place on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, as it has many times since 1975, drawing in a diverse group of participants. The event kicked off with three swim socials that helped swimmers build confidence and endurance in the ocean, led by accomplished club open water swimmers. A clever addition by Committee Chair Ben Komer was the introduction of a rest raft at the halfway point, offering tired swimmers a chance to take a break, hydrate with electrolyte drinks, and connect with friends. Swimmers had the option to wear fins or masks, making the event accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels. The competition culminated in a thrilling finish, with Lectie Altman-Batula edging out Ian Lee for first place overall. Lectie joins the likes of Kristi Torkildson and Sandie Easton as women who finished first overall and will receive the honor of having her name on the prestigious Castle Swim Perpetual Trophy. All first-place finishers received prizes of stylish Over Under snorkel masks provided by club member Will Estes. The legacy of the Castle Swim is underscored by notable past winners, such as Jimmy Dean and Chris Moore, who each have nine victories to their names. This year’s event was made even more special by former swim committee chairs like Gerry DeBenedetti and Stefan Reinke volunteering and taking part in the event. As the Castle Swim continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and competition within the swimming community, celebrating not only athletic prowess but also the joy of participating, hosting and giving back to a cherished tradition.
26 AMA | JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2025
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator