Bryan’s Big Swims: Donation Page

A MESSAGE FROM BRYAN

I know that swimming BIG swims and fundraising are both formidable challenges, but, to me, both are worth it. With each challenging swim, I want to raise water safety awareness and children’s ability for aquatic aptitude. Drowning is the number one cause of death in children age 1-4 in the US, and the number 2 cause of death (second to car accidents) for children 5-15. Our goal is to remove any barriers that prevent “waterproofing” kids in our community and to eliminate drowning from the top 10 causes of childhood death in our region.

My ultimate goal is to complete the Triple Crown (completed in 2024!) and swim all 5 Great Lakes. Why? Because with each successive swim, I plan to continue to raise scholarships funds for children to learn to swim at HAC.

This truly is important to me. I hope it is for you too. Please consider helping us reach this goal to give kids important lifelong skills.

July 2025 Update

On July 22, 2025, Bryan began his amazing attempt to swim across Lake Huron, starting at Port Franks, Ontario, and ending at Sanilac, MI. After completing over 30 miles of the 35 mile crossing, Bryan made the difficult decision to get out of the water. Though he was disappointed to stop after making so much progress, he didn’t want to endanger himself by continuing while cold and exhausted. We are so appreciative of Bryan’s efforts and congratulate him on his strength, perseverance, and dedication.

What does it take to prepare for a Great Lakes crossing?

– Swim 10-12 miles per week throughout the winter with MLA Masters
– Increase to 12-15 miles per week in March
– Increase to 15-18 miles per week in April
– Average 20+ miles per week since late May
– Training peak of 31 miles during the last week of May!

What’s next?

Bryan will ramp up his training again after his attempt to cross Lake Huron! His next BIG SWIM will take place in August, when he attempts a swim across Lake Superior between August 23 and 31.