The annual swim marathon is an important event for the Flying Fish swim team and the entire YWCA organization for many reasons.

First, it provides a valuable benchmark of swimming development and progress. (“I did 50 lengths last year, and this year I did 60 lengths!”)

Second, it’s an opportunity for swimmers to challenge themselves mentally and physically and learn to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Swimmers learn they can push themselves and achieve more than they thought possible, which builds confidence and helps them mature as people.

Finally, the marathon is a crucial fundraiser. It raises funds for all of YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s social justice work, which touches the lives of more than 10,000 people annually in northeastern Cook County.

For swimmers, parents, coaches and all YWCA staff, the swim marathon is one of the most exciting and gratifying events of the year.

Is the swim marathon mandatory for Flying Fish swim team members?
Yes. It’s an important step in a swimmer’s maturation and it’s also an important benchmark of a swimmer’s individual progress.
 

Do we select a time to swim in the swim marathon here?
No. Your marathon time will be based on your practice group. The marathon schedule will be shared via email in early January.
 

What prizes are available for swimmers who raise money with their marathon swims?
All participants receive an event t-shirt, a bag tag, and an invitation to a t-shirt making & pool party at the YWCA on March 15th!

Fundraisers who raise $125 or above can earn additional prizes*:

• $125 - $299 -- Two (2) personalized swim caps & one (1) cinch bag with Flying Fish logo
• $300 - $499 -- One (1) Quarter-zip pullover with Flying Fish logo
• $500 - $724 -- One (1) Team blanket with Flying Fish logo
• $725 - $974 – Flick-n-Float party at YWCA on March 21th from 5:00pm-7:15pm
• $975 and above -- One (1) Comfy hoodie & sweatpants set
  
  *Please note that the prizes are cumulative. For example, if you raise $300 - $499 you'll receive the event t-shirt, bag tag, attendance to t-shirt making pool party, two personalized swim caps, one cinch bag, and one quarter-zip pullover.

Since every participant receives a prize, all participants must submit a prize form
All funds and completed prize forms are due by February 28th.
Marathon prizes will be distributed at the YWCA at a later date.

Questions? Contact Anne at awolff@ywca-ens.org