This year’s Clean Ocean Swim brought together swimmers of all ages and abilities for a community-focused day aimed at promoting ocean conservation and water safety.
The open water event, organised by the All Nations United Swim Club, welcomed 25 swimmers on Easter Sunday, 5 April, during Anguilla’s Festival del Mar celebrations.
Participants were given the choice between a half-mile swim from Island Harbour Bay to Scilly Cay and back, or a full one-mile course consisting of two laps.
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The youngest swimmer was just eight years old, while the oldest was 69, reflecting the inclusive nature of the swim. Only one participant was unable to complete the course.
Club coordinator Demi Proctor told Anguilla Focus the third annual event was “a great success” and described the atmosphere as both “fun and relaxed”.
She said swimmers from across the region attended, including members of the Anguilla Aquastars Swim Club and the St Maarten Dolphin Swim Club.
The Clean Ocean Swim is designed as a non-competitive experience. All finishers receive a medal, while prizes are awarded through a random draw.
This year’s prizes included cash, electronics, dining experiences, accessories and hotel stays, all contributed by community partners.
The swim forms part of a wider effort to highlight the importance of keeping oceans clean, while also encouraging people to develop water confidence and swimming skills.
It also serves as a fundraiser, with proceeds helping to support the club’s competitive swimmers and cover training equipment and travel to regional competitions.
The event has grown significantly since its inception.
In 2025, the second edition of the Clean Ocean Swim saw a sharp rise in participation, with 42 swimmers taking to the water – up from just 14 in 2024.
Organisers had previously said they hoped to expand the event further, with a long-term goal of attracting up to 150 swimmers.
“We are already working on plans for next year and look forward to building on this year’s event,” said Proctor.
Watch highlights from the swim courtesy of All Nations United Swim Club below:
