Joanne Rodgers,
Bruce Peninsula Press
Swimmers have participated year after year at the 1 mile swim event at Black Creek Provincial Park (aka Sandy Beach). The swimmers start at the Beach and swim to Old Woman Island and back, a total of 1.6 km or 1 mile.
Sixteen swimmers braved the cool, choppy waters on the morning of August 30, 2026 to take part in the final swim.
Organizers Sahand Amiri and Teresa Nesci say this is the last year they will be organizing the event. Over the past five swim meets, they have donated the fundraising monies to Indigenous, Women and Children causes.
The couple are happy that they were able to create a successful community event and hope they can inspire the younger generation to create other community events. They wish to thank the swimmers, many have participated for each of the five years, their business sponsors, the invaluable assistance from Celtic Camp, especially regarding water safety and support to the swimmers, and all who donated to the fundraising efforts.
This year the organizers will donate to Bagida-waad Alliance. Chris Akiwenzie says the group was created in response to the dwindling local whitefish stock. The group supports education and outreach within SON’s territory. Their work is hands-on, community-driven, and rooted in Indigenous knowledge. Funds donated will go towards equipment, field supplies, safety gear, habitat restoration materials, transportation, and youth training.
The winners of the 2026 1 Mile Swim were: 1st place Oscar Siwiee with the time of 21 mins 54 sec, 2nd place Jackie Madden with the time of 24 minutes and 23 seconds, 3rd place Jim Dickey with the time of 24 minutes 37 seconds.
