WHITEWATER REGION (Cobden) — Sarah Hall takes to the water of Muskrat Lake on Saturday, swimming its full length of about 16 kilometres in less than six hours.
Ms. Hall, who has completed two long-distance swims, became involved with the Muskrat Watershed Council (MWC) through her work at Algonquin College in Pembroke. In 2014 and 2015, she swam the Northumberland Strait.
As a fundraiser for the MWC, she offered to swim from the bottom of Meath Hill to the Cobden beach. It’s expected she will step into the water around 7 a.m. and come out sometime between 1 and 2 p.m.
Ms. Hall had a goal of raising $2,500 – she has surpassed $3,000.
Andrew Laird, a volunteer with MWC and a director in charge of recreation and tourism, said, “As a volunteer and resident of the lake, I am a third generation living in the watershed, I pledge $500 to Sarah.
“I challenge anyone who lives within the watershed to meet or beat my pledge.”
Ms. Hall has spent a fair amount of time training throughout the winter months, Mr. Laird said.
“I want to show my appreciation for all the effort she has put into the swim,” he said.
While there is a gofundme fundraiser page for Ms. Hall, Mr. Laird said if people are going to the event at the Cobden beach on Saturday, it would be best to bring the money there.
“Come out on Saturday and donate,” he encouraged, adding, “It all goes to the watershed.”
On Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a barbecue, silent auction and live music at the Cobden beach / boat launch.
It’s also an opportunity to learn about the township’s new physical activity equipment lending hub as well.
People are encouraged to cheer Ms. Hall on as she finishes her swim.
