Make Waves to Fight Cancer: 4th Annual SAA Florida Keys Open Water Swim

📍 Founders Park, Islamorada — Saturday, April 12, 2025

Get ready to dive into the fight against cancer! The 4th Annual Swim Across America (SAA) Florida Keys Open Water Swim is making a splash on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Founders Park in Islamorada. This isn’t just a fun swim—whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just getting your feet wet, it’s an opportunity to support cutting-edge cancer research.

Since its inception in 2022, SAA – Florida Keys has donated over $280,000 to groundbreaking Phase 1 cancer research at Miami Cancer Institute (MCI), part of our local Baptist Health Network. Last year alone, swimmers and supporters granted $80,000 to early-stage research that could lead to life-saving treatments. This year’s goal? Raise $100,000 with help from 100+ swimmers and make an even bigger impact.

💯 100% for Research, Right Here at Home

What makes this event so powerful is that 100% of proceeds go directly to a specific research project within our local network. Both last year’s grant and this year’s swim will support Dr. Linhares, a leading oncologist specializing in lymphoma. Her innovative work at MCI is helping to develop the next generation of cancer treatments.

Attendees will even get to meet Dr. Linhares at the event, hear about her research firsthand, and connect with the people behind this incredible cancer-fighting organization at the MCI booth.

🌊 Safe, Scenic & Supportive

Worried about “open water”? Don’t be! Founders Park provides an incredibly safe environment. The bay is shallow most areas are under 8 feet—and in some spots, swimmers can even stand. The water is crystal clear and calm, making it perfect for a beginner or veteran swimmer. Participants can choose from a half-mile, 1-mile, or 2-mile swim, plus a Kids Splash event for younger swimmers.

To ease nerves, Angel Swimmers (strong, experienced swimmers) are ready to swim alongside those who need extra confidence. Volunteers on wave runners, kayaks, and paddleboards will also be stationed throughout the course for added safety and encouragement.

“We encourage people to just give it a try,” say event co-organizers Glenn and Susan Latham. “This is a fun, non-competitive swim where everyone is supported.”

Can’t make it to Islamorada? No problem! Try SAA My Way, a virtual swim you can complete anytime, anywhere—even in your own pool!

💸 Fundraising with Heart

Adult participants pledge to raise $500, while those under 18 commit to $200. It’s easier than you think! SAA provides a simple fundraising platform to help participants connect with friends, family, and supporters. Best of all there’s no penalty if you don’t hit your pledge. Every dollar counts.

It’s not too late to register! Join now and ride the wave of donations as the event draws near. The swim remains open for donations all year long, so you can keep fundraising even after event day.

🏅 Meet Olympic Champions

This year’s event features an exciting lineup of Olympians and elite swimmers, including:

• Steve Lundquist
• Craig Beardsley
• Jon Olsen
• Bob Coakley
• …and more!

These world-class athletes will be on-site as Angel Swimmers, safety volunteers, and inspirational mentors. Bring your camera—you can even take photos with their Olympic medals!

🎉 More Than Just a Swim

After the swim, the event will wrap with an award ceremony and a special moment where a check is presented to MCI to celebrate the fundraising achievements.

Are you ready to Make Waves to Fight Cancer?

🌐 Visit SwimAcrossAmerica.org/FloridaKeys to swim, volunteer, sponsor, or donate today.

📸 Photography by David Gross

– Written by Jerrica Mah — writer, Army wife, and freelance book editor who loves to travel vicariously through stories.