Swim Across America Set For Saturday, Sept. 27

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – North Carolina swimming and diving's fourth annual Swim Across America event is set for Saturday, Sept. 27 at Koury Natatorium. Check-in will start at 8:15 a.m. with the swim beginning at 9:30 a.m.

This year's swim is in honor of Rich DeSelm, an All-America swimmer as a Tar Heel and member of the University of North Carolina's swimming and diving coaching staff for nearly 30 years. DeSelm led UNC's men's and women's teams to 17 top-three ACC finishes and 16 top-30 finishes at the NCAA Championships, and trained 53 All-Americans and 26 ACC Champions during his tenure as head coach. DeSelm's connection to Swim Across America runs deep — rooted not only in his lifelong commitment to swimming and building community but also his own cancer journey.

Currently, we have raised over $130,000 this year with the number still climbing. The impact of UNC's Swim Across America event can be found here. If you'd like to help us increase our total figure, donations are being accepted here.

"The greatest thing about being at UNC is the community of people that love this place," head coach Mark Gangloff said. "This event brings together the Chapel Hill community for the common goal of beating cancer. It's a fun event that no matter the level of your competitive swimming experience, you should be involved: kids, adults, parents, grandparents. Come out and join us or donate!"

Teams will swim in a relay format for 60 minutes in the water which will consist of stroke drills and regular stroke swimming. During the last 30 minutes, teams will have fun with inner tube relays. People of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate.

Swim Across America is a team relay charity swim that funds cancer research and patient programs. Founded in 1987, the organization has raised over $100 million. More information about SAA can be found here.

For up-to-date information on UNC Swimming & Diving, visit GoHeels.com/Swimming-and-Diving and follow on X (@uncswimdive), Instagram (@uncswimdive) and Facebook (Facebook.com/UNCswimdive).

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