Proceeds will benefit the Oneida County Public Safety Dive Team as more than 100 swimmers are expected in Minocqua on June 23.
The Minocqua Island Swim Challenge involves a one mile or 400 meter open water swim beginning at Torpy Park.
Race Director Laura Fuhrman(fur-man) says competitors begin on the beach and swim to the island and back and is a timed race....
"...It's a timed race and we swim similiarly to a triathlon where they go in waves by age group, so it's not everybody starting at the same time. In the past we've had up to 120 swimmers. It's a fun event. People of all ages can do it. If you feel you can't swim a mile there's also the 400 meter option as well...."
Fuhrman says they've had swimmers as young as nine and others in their '70's compete. The entry fee is $40, that includes a bag with a commemorative mug, swim cap and goody bag and finish line food.
She says the money raised helps Northwoods residents...
"...The Oneida County Public Safety Dive Team is funded through the sheriff's office budget but we are required to raise a portion of our budget ourselves so this is our main fundraiser. Our goal is to raise $5,000 for this effort....."
The dive team has 10 divers who respond to emergencies across more than a thousand lakes and 74,000 acres of water each year. Fuhrman says volunteers are needed to help with the race.
More information is available on Facebook at islands swim challenge or Tortoise & Hare Race Management.
