Courtesy of WOWSA, Huntington Beach, California.

The Lake Hopatcong Open Water Swim Festival is an annual charity swim in September to benefit several animal rescue and K-9 charities including the Southern Tier Police Canine Association, 11th Hour Rescue, Father John’s Animal House, and the Jefferson Township Animal Pound.

Race director Bridgette Hobart-Janeczko is always grateful for the support the swim receives. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our local business community, our ‘paws sponsors, and our event volunteers.

Through their enthusiastic contribution of time, money and resources, local business and individual paw sponsors as well as event volunteers have made it possible for this event to make a difference – not only in the lives of many animals rescued and adopted each year, but the communities that are kept safe through the selfless work of K9 dogs and their handlers.”

For more information about the 1-mile Tom Wear Memorial Swim and the 2-mile U.S. Masters Swimming race, visit here.

Copyright © 2014 by World Open Water Swimming Association