Take on the Sound

Calling all open water swimming wannabes, stars and veterans — it’s not too late to go Round the Sound.

The annual event is a popular fixture on the island’s sporting calendar and on Sunday it’s back.

Over 300 swimmers are expected to take to the water, 150 of which are already-confirmed from overseas.

There are five race categories to cater for all abilities, with swimmers able to choose from 10k, 7.25k, 4k, 2k and the 0.8k dash.

Late registration is still open. The deadline for paper entries is today at 5pm, while electronic entries — which can be done via www.racedayworld.bm — must be completed by 5pm on Friday.

The field will feature three-time Olympic pool gold medallist American Brooke Bennett, which is sure to get the race favourites on high alert.

“That could shake things up a little,” said Brian Frick, of the race organizing committee, who went on to explain the race’s popularity. He told the Bermuda Sun: “It’s still billed as one of the most beautiful races in the world. People come here and are wowed by the beauty of the site.

“People are used to swimming resevoirs and canals and here they get to swim in tropical water.”

And the attraction of ditching the comforts of the fast lane at the swimming pool?

“The adventure,” said Frick. “For the kids it’s braving something different, braving the big bad water! Some people like the fact there’s no limits, no endless turns at the wall — the scenery is constantly changing.”

He added: “It’s still 78 degrees so for a lot of the swimmers this is a fairly warm course.

“It’s not a wetsuit course because we are still in [temperature] range, which feels more natural. We have that in our favour as well. 

“There are several teams who have made a pact to swim the 10k together.

“It’s good team work and a challenge. They will do well — and their coaches are really confident of them doing well.”

The cost of entering is $45, while all pledge funds go to charity.

The 10k starts at 10am from East Side Dock.

The event is sponsored by Bermuda Department of Tourism, Zobec.bm and Dolphin Swim Team of Bermuda.

The Overseas Event Co-ordinator is Aqua Moon Adventures and the Official Event Accommodation is  Grotto Bay Beach Resort.