For All Swimmers

St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound Marathon July 30th 2016 | Captain’s Cove Seaport, Bridgeport, CT

INFORMATION PACKET 2016 ENTRY PACKET

Dear Swimmer:

Thank you for your interest in the 29th Annual SWIM Across the Sound. The SWIM Across the Sound has been recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Open Water Swims by the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA). We are very proud of this prestigious award. The 2016 SWIM Marathon will be held on Saturday, July 30th.

Each year swimmers, boat captains, volunteers, families and friends join the SWIM to support patients, honor survivors and remember loved ones. The funds that the swimmers raise truly make a huge difference in the lives of patients and their families. The SWIM, known for its wonderful enthusiasm and high spirit, covers 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) distance across the open seas of the Long Island Sound. The SWIM attracts new and experienced marathon swimmers from around the world to test their skill and preparation as Solo swimmers. Many swimmers participate as a relay team member, enjoying the camaraderie and views of the NYC skyline swimming with their friends, family, co-workers and classmates in one of the SWIM’s six relay categories.

In addition to the Solo Swimmer category, the SWIM’s relay categories include:

1.Two-person relay team - combines speed and endurance, making it likely the most difficult of all categories. 2.“Never Alone” - three pairs of swimmers (1/2 hour legs) representing that you are never alone when you are battling cancer 3.“Classic”- Non-wetsuit team of 4-6 swimmers 4.“Traditional” – Wetsuit allowed team of 4-6 swimmers 5.“University Challenge” – Comprised of students and alumni from the same college/university 6.“Corporate Challenge” – Comprised of co-workers and retirees from the same company

This year we are offering “Early Bird registration” - Registration Fee Discount of $100 for Solo swimmers and Team Relays who register before March 15, 2016. We expect the Solo and Two-person relay categories to fill quickly, so don’t delay!

We are grateful to all the swimmers and volunteers that have supported the SWIM through the years and its mission to help patients and their families impacted financially by cancer and provide screening and support services to our communities. We look forward to seeing you at the SWIM on July 30, 2016*.

Warmest regards,

Elizabeth Fry SWIM Marathon Director [email protected]

*Note: The Reserved Date for Solo swimmers is Monday, August 1st

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 1 of 16 SWIM ACROSS THE SOUND

Date: Saturday, July 30th, 2016

Departure: Long Island Sound Ferry, Bridgeport - 6:00 am

Start: Approx. 8:30 - 9:30 am West Beach, Port Jefferson, NY

Finish: Captain’s Cove Marina - Bridgeport, CT

Distance: 25km

Time Limit: 9 hrs 30 min.*

Max # of Participants: We have reserved 15 solo swimmers, 5 two-person relays and up to 55 team relays, a maximum of 75 swimming boats for relays and solos combined.

Minimum Age: 19 yrs old for solo swimmers and two-person relay team members, 13 yrs old for team relay members. Exceptions may be considered under the discretion of the SWIM Committee .

Fundraising Commitment: Solo swimmers $1,500 Two-person relay $3,500 Team relay $7,500

Escort Boats: Each swimmer/team will be provided with a motorized escort boat.

Awards: Awards to the top male and female solo swimmers and relay categories. All swimmers are recognized for their participation. The relay team category focuses more on fundraising efforts for cancer programs sponsored by the SWIM, rather than race results.

* The SWIM committee may grant additional time under certain swim conditions or circumstances.

www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 2 of 16 SWIM MARATHON TIMELINE OF EVENTS Application Deadlines

January 4th, 2016 2016 SWIM Marathon registration opens. March 15th, 2016 Early Bird Registration ends July 8th, 2016 Deadline for ALL required documentation. Solo or two-person relay application acceptance can be rescinded by the SWIM Committee if failure to submit the medical form and proof of completion of qualifying swim(s) is not received by this date. July 11th, 2016 Last date to register online with non-refundable entry fee due. Please keep in mind that the SWIM may be full before this date. July 15th, 2016 SWIM Across the Sound field finalized*. July 26th, 2016 Boat captains’ mandatory meeting. July 28th, 2016 Swimmers’ and crew mandatory meeting July 30th, 2016 SWIM DAY August 1st, 2016 Reserve date for Solo Swimmers * The SWIM Event Committee reserves the right to add swimmers/teams on a waiting list.

SWIM Day Schedule - Saturday, July 30th, 2016

5:00 AM Meet at Captain’s Cove Seaport 5:30 AM Shuttle buses depart for Ferry Terminal 6:00 AM Ferry leaves from Bridgeport to Port Jefferson 7:15 AM Ferry arrives in Port Jefferson 8:00 AM Swimmers board escort boats 8:45 AM Approximate start time for Wave 1 Team Relays 9:15 AM Approximate start time for Wave 2 Team Relays 3:00 PM Estimated arrival time for lead swimmers 6:30 PM SWIM concludes 7:00 PM Awards ceremony will begin 30 minutes after conclusion of the SWIM and post-SWIM party.

SWIM Memorial Service - Sunday, July 31st, 2016 - Captain’s Cove Seaport

8:00 AM - Registration, service follows at 8:30 AM Join St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound at the 18th Annual Memorial Service on Sunday, July 31st, 2016 at Captain’s Cove Seaport in Bridgeport. The event is open to all and will celebrate the lives of family members and friends we have lost to cancer. SWIM CONTACTS

Applications and payments should be mailed to: St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound c/o St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation 2800 Main Street Bridgeport, CT 06606

To contact the SWIM Marathon Director, Liz Fry, please e-mail [email protected] For information about your application and online registration, please e-mail [email protected] AND [email protected] or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304. For fundraising materials and other information about the Foundation, please call Patti Fignar at 203-382-2303 or visit the SWIM website: www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 3 of 16 SWIM MARATHON INFORMATION

1. SWIM DAY LOGISTICS: (Please see the Timeline of Events for specific dates/times) • Swimmers meet at Captain’s Cove Marina and board buses to the ferry. Shuttle buses are provided to transport the swimmers and crew members to the ferry terminal. (Swimmers may go directly to the ferry if they prefer.) • The swimmers will meet their boat captains at Danfords Marina and then proceed to the start at West Beach, just outside the Harbor entrance. • Escort boat will drop off their swimmer at the designated location specified by the SWIM Committee. • The finish is at Captain’s Cove Marina in Bridgeport. • You may park at the garage for the Ferry terminal or at Captain’s Cove and take one of the shuttle buses provided to take you to the ferry.

2. SWIM COURSE TIME LIMITS: • Long Island Sound is a major destination for recreational boaters on the weekend, and your safety is the most important consideration. • The SWIM Across the Sound has a 9 and 1/2 hour time limit and designated milestones in the SWIM that must be reached by certain time parameters. The SWIM Committee may grant additional time under certain circumstances. • If the swimmer fails to reach the designated milestones the swimmer/team will be notified by a Committee boat that she/he have fallen off the pace. If the swimmer/relay misses two consecutive milestones, at the discretion of the SWIM officials, the swimmer/relay will be given the following options: - Withdraw from the SWIM - Continue to swim unofficially but only after getting into the boat and motoring up to the designated point, determined by the officials, before getting back in the water • The SWIM official/observer assigned to each boat will record in a log book the following information: GPS coordinates, distance from buoy 2A, condition of the swimmer, stroke rate per minute, and any other information deemed necessary. Buoy 2A is located at the entrance to Black Rock Harbor.

3. SWIM COURSE MANAGEMENT: • The SWIM course is determined by the SWIM committee based on tides and other conditions and may be adjusted during the SWIM Marathon. • All Escort Boats MUST FOLLOW the instructions of the Committee Boats, Law Enforcement Boats and Perimeter/ Guide Boats. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.

4. WATER CONDITIONS: • The water temperature in Long Island Sound during the summer months ranges from approx 68F to 74F. • The Sound can be choppy with a strong wind, and there is a fair amount of recreational boat traffic during this time of year. • Jelly fish are common during this time of year, and the swimmer should prepare accordingly with appropriate treatments to treat such stings if they occur.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 4 of 16 SWIM MARATHON INFORMATION

5. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION: • All solo and relay swimmers must attend a mandatory meeting/dinner on the Thursday before the SWIM Day at a time and place to be determined. • The SWIM committee reserves the right to change the start time and/or distance of the event in order to provide the safest conditions as possible due to inclement weather. • Each swimmer will be assigned an escort boat provided by the SWIM. You may not use your own escort without permission from the SWIM committee in advance. • A swimmer is not allowed to touch the escort boat in any way; doing so will result in disqualification. If this happens, the SWIM official must notify a Committee Boat promptly. The only exception is if all the swimmers are asked to leave the water by the SWIM official for safety reasons due to inclement weather or other short-term safety concerns. • Each boat will be equipped with GPS, working radio and cell phone. • EMT’s and life saving professionals are positioned on escort boats throughout the field. • Fully staffed medical boats and underwater search and rescue teams will be strategically positioned throughout the field. • A SWIM official/observer will be assigned to each escort boat to observe the swimmer and monitor his/her progress.

HOTEL INFORMATION

The Holiday Inn in Bridgeport is the official host for the SWIM. A specially negotiated discounted hotel rate at the Holiday Inn is available by mentioning the SWIM.

Please contact the Holiday Inn, 1070 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604. Phone: (203) 334-1234.

Danfords Hotel & Marina in Port Jefferson, New York is the official host for the SWIM. A special negotiated discounted hotel rate at Danfords is available on a first come-first served basis. You MUST indicate that you are participating in the SWIM.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 5 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

SOLO SWIMMERS 1. PARTICIPATION: • Solo swimmers swim the 25 kilometer distance individually. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • One suit, swim cap, goggles, earplugs and grease will be allowed. For women, suits that cover up to their neck and down to their knees are acceptable. For men, suits may not cover their torso, nor go below their knees. Neither men nor women may wear suits that cover their shoulders in any way. All suits must be of the traditional swimming style “lycra” type suits. • Swimmers must wear the provided swim cap.

3. ASSISTANCE: • Solo swimmers may not use flotation aids, propulsion devices, or any other devices to maintain body heat. Wetsuits, fins, hand paddles, pull buoys or boards are strictly prohibited. • Pacing, drafting and towing are not allowed. • Swimmers may not touch the escort boat or any other boat during their swim leg. A violation of this rule shall result in disqualification. • All solo swimmers should bring one crew member to provide feeding assistance. If a swimmer is unable to bring their own crew, please notify the race committee and we will use our best efforts to provide you a crew member. • Swimmers are required to bring their own food for the swim. • The use of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden.

4. QUALIFYING SWIM: • All solo applicants must submit proof of a six-hour or longer qualifying swim in open water completed within the past 18 months in order to be eligible to participate in the event. Swimmers who have successfully completed any of the following swims within the past 18 months are exempt from the six hour qualifier swim: • Catalina Island Channel • SWIM Across the Sound • English Channel • Tampa Bay 24 mile Marathon Swim • Lake Memphremagog • Six-Hour Qualifying Swim* • Manhattan Island Marathon Swim • Other USA/USMS distance swim > 10 miles • Round Jersey Swim (Channel Islands) * Applicants must complete at least 10 miles during the 6 hour qualifying swim. Please complete and submit the Qualifying Swim-Observer Report and Qualifying Swim Log as evidence of compliance.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Solo swimmers must be 19 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules. Exceptions may be considered under the discretion of the SWIM Committee.

6. MEDICAL EXAMINATION: • All solo swimmers must have their primary physician fully complete the required medical form. • Medical examinations must be completed within one (1) full year of participation in the SWIM Marathon. • Solo applicants must submit proof of Qualifying Swim and completed Medical Form by the documentation deadline. For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info - Page 6 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

TWO-PERSON RELAY SWIMMERS

1. PARTICIPATION: • Two-person relay swimmers consist of two swimmers who alternate 1/2 hour swim legs over the 25K distance. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • Two-person relay swimmers are not permitted to wear wetsuits. • One suit, swim cap, goggles, earplugs and grease will be allowed. For women, suits that cover up to their neck and down to their knees are acceptable. For men, suits may not cover their torso, nor go below their knees. Neither men nor women may wear suits that cover their shoulders in any way. All suits must be of the traditional swimming style “lycra” type suits. • Swimmers must wear the provided swim cap.

3. ASSISTANCE: • Two-person relay swimmers may not use flotation aids, propulsion devices, or any other devices to maintain body heat. Wetsuits, fins, hand paddles, pull buoys or boards are strictly prohibited. • Pacing, drafting and towing are not allowed. • Swimmers may not touch the escort boat or any other boat during their swim leg. A violation of this rule shall result in disqualification. • All two-person relay teams should bring one crew member to provide feeding assistance. If a team is unable to bring their own crew, please notify the Swim Committee and we will use our best efforts to provide you a crew member. • Swimmers are required to bring their own food for the swim. • The use of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden.

4. QUALIFYING SWIM: • All two-person relay applicants must submit proof of a four-hour or longer qualifying swim in open water completed within the past 18 months in order to be eligible to participate in the event. Swimmers who have successfully completed any of the following swims within the past 18 months are exempt from the four-hour qualifier swim: • Catalina Island Channel • SWIM Across the Sound • English Channel • Tampa Bay 24 mile Marathon Swim • Lake Memphremagog • Four-Hour Qualifying Swim* • Manhattan Island Marathon Swim • Other USA/USMS distance swim > 7.5 miles • Round Jersey Swim (Channel Islands) * Applicants must complete at least 7.5 miles during the 4 hour qualifying swim. Please complete and submit the Qualifying Swim-Observer Report and Qualifying Swim Log as evidence of compliance. Applicants must submit this requirement by the documentation deadline.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Two-person relay swimmers must be 19 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules. Exceptions may be considered under the discretion of the SWIM Committee.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 7 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

6. TWO-PERSON RELAY INSTRUCTIONS: • Swimmers must alternate every 30 minutes (no exceptions). The order of the swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim. • The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer. • Relay team members must enter the water feet first. • There are no warm-ups before the swim. Only the lead-off swimmer is permitted in the water. • Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.

7. MEDICAL EXAMINATION: • Both swimmers must have their primary physician fully complete the required medical form. • Medical examinations must be completed within one (1) year of participation in the SWIM Marathon. • Applicants must submit proof of Qualifying Swim and completed Medical Form by the documentation deadline.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 8 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

TEAM RELAY “NEVER ALONE” 1. PARTICIPATION: • Teams in the NEVER ALONE category are comprised of three (3) pairs of swimmers (1/2 hour legs) representing that you are never alone when you are battling cancer. • Team captains must organize the relay team of 6 swimmers into pairs according to pace. The swimming pair will swim side by side next to each other. The swimming pair should pace themselves to the slower swimmer in the pair. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee. 2. CLOTHING: • “NEVER ALONE” team swimmers are permitted to wear wet suits • Swimmers must wear swim cap provided. 3. ASSISTANCE: • Swimmers may not use flotation aids, propulsion devices, or any other devices to maintain body heat. Fins, hand paddles, pull buoys or boards are strictly prohibited. • Pacing, drafting and towing are not allowed. • Swimmers may not touch the escort boat or any other boat during their swim leg. A violation of this rule shall result in disqualification. • Swimmers are required to bring their own food for the swim. • The use of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden. 4. QUALIFYING SWIM: • All Never Alone relay applicants must submit proof of a two-hour or longer qualifying swim in open water completed within the past 18 months in order to be eligible to participate in the event. Swimmers who have successfully completed any of the following swims within the past 18 months are exempt from the two-hour qualifier swim: • Catalina Island Channel • SWIM Across the Sound • English Channel • Tampa Bay 24 mile Marathon Swim • Lake Memphremagog • Two-Hour Qualifying Swim* • Manhattan Island Marathon Swim • Other USA/USMS distance swim > 4 miles • Round Jersey Swim (Channel Islands) * Applicants must complete at least 4 miles during the 2 hour qualifying swim. Please complete and submit the Qualifying Swim-Observer Report and Qualifying Swim Log as evidence of compliance. 5. AGE MINIMUM: • Relay team members must be 16 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules. 6. RELAY INSTRUCTIONS: • There are 6 relay swimmers per team. • Swimmers must alternate every 30 minutes (no exceptions). • The order of the swimming pairs must be maintained throughout the swim. • The transition from each relay pair of swimmers to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmers in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmers fully pass the departing swimmers. • Only team relay members are permitted on the escort boat due to space limitations and safety reasons. • Relay team members must enter the water feet first. • There is no warm-up before the SWIM. Only lead-off swimmers are permitted in the water. • Failure to follow these rules, will result in a disqualification For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 9 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

TEAM RELAY “CLASSIC” (NO WETSUITS ALLOWED) 1. PARTICIPATION: • Teams in CLASSIC category are comprised of 4 to 6 swimmers. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • “Classic” Team Relay swimmers are not permitted to wear wetsuits. • One suit, swim cap, goggles, ear plugs and grease will be allowed. For women, suits that cover up to their neck and down to their knees are acceptable. For men, suits may not cover their torso, nor go below their knees. Neither men nor women may wear suits that cover their shoulders in any way. All suits must be of the traditional swimming style “lycra” type suits. • Swimmer must wear the provided swim cap.

3. ASSISTANCE: • Swimmers may not use flotation aids, propulsion devices, or any other devices to maintain body heat. Fins, hand paddles, pull buoys or boards are strictly prohibited. • Pacing, drafting and towing are not allowed. • Swimmers may not touch the escort boat or any other boat during their swim leg. A violation of this rule shall result in disqualification. • Swimmers are required to bring their own food for the swim. • The use of alcohol or drugs is strictly forbidden.

4. QUALIFYING SWIM: • No qualifying swim is required. It is strongly recommended that all team relay members gain experience swimming in open water prior to participation. Team captains should ensure that each relay member is capable of swimming 15 minutes continuously and at least 2 hours total.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Team relay members must be 13 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules.

6. RELAY INSTRUCTIONS: • A minimum of 4 and maximum of 6 relay swimmers per team. • Swimmers must alternate every 15-30 minutes (no exceptions). • The order of the swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim. • The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer. • Only team relay members are permitted on the escort boat due to space limitations and safety reasons. Relay teams made up of members under the age of 18 are required to bring one coach or chaperone. • Team relay swimmers must enter the water feet first. • There is no warm-up before the SWIM. Only lead-off swimmers are permitted in the water. • Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 10 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

TEAM RELAY “TRADITIONAL” (WETSUITS ALLOWED)

1. PARTICIPATION: • Teams in TRADITIONAL category are comprised of 4 to 6 swimmers. Wetsuits are allowed for a TRADITIONAL relay team. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • “Traditional” Team Relay swimmers are permitted to wear wetsuits. • Swimmer must wear event swim cap provided while in the water.

4. QUALIFYING SWIM: • No qualifying swim is required. It is strongly recommended that all relay team members gain experience swimming in open water prior to participation. Team captains should ensure that each relay member is capable of swimming 15 minutes continuously and at least 2 hours total.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Team relay members must be 13 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 11 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES

TEAM RELAY “UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE”

1. PARTICIPATION: • Teams in this category are comprised of students and/or alumni from the same university or college. The goal of the “University Challenge” is to create opportunities for alumni to stay connected with their university, fellow teammates and current students. Anyone can captain a team; team members are required to either be currently enrolled or to have attended the school for at least two semesters. • Team captains must notify their university/college athletic director and swim coach of their intention to participate in this event. It is up to each team captain and team member to be sure they are in compliance with their school’s policies and regulations concerning fundraising. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • University Challenge Team Relay swimmers are permitted to wear wetsuits. • Swimmer must wear event swim cap provided while in the water.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Team relay members must be 13 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules.

6. RELAY INSTRUCTIONS: • A minimum of 4 and maximum of 6 relay swimmers per team. • Swimmers must alternate every 15-30 minutes (no exceptions). • The order of the swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim. • The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer. • Only team relay members are permitted on the escort boat due to space limitations and safety reasons. • Team relay swimmers must enter the water feet first. • There is no warm-up before the SWIM. Only lead-off swimmers are permitted in the water. • Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 12 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES & GUIDELINES TEAM RELAY “CORPORATE CHALLENGE” 1. PARTICIPATION: • Teams in this category are comprised of employees from the same corporation or company. The goal of the “Corporate Team” is to create opportunities for employees to work together with fellow employees for a community goal. Anyone can captain a team; team members are required to be currently or previously employed by the company or corporation. • Team captains must notify their company or corporation of their intention to participate in this event. It is up to each team captain and team member to be sure they are in compliance with their corporation’s policies and regulations concerning fundraising. • Enrollments are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please remember, applications are not considered to be complete until all the required information has been received and approved by the SWIM Committee.

2. CLOTHING: • Corporate Challenge team swimmers are permitted to wear wet suits. • Swimmer must wear event swim cap provided while in the water.

5. AGE MINIMUM: • Team relay members must be 13 years old on or before December 31 of the year of the event, in accordance with FINA Age Rules.

6. RELAY INSTRUCTIONS: • A minimum of 4 and maximum of 6 relay swimmers per team. • Swimmers must alternate every 15-30 minutes (no exceptions). • The order of the swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim. • The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer. • Only team relay members are permitted on the escort boat due to space limitations and safety reasons. • Team relay members must enter the water feet first. • There is no warm-up before the SWIM. Only lead-off swimmers are permitted in the water. • Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 13 of 16 SWIM MARATHON FUNDRAISING INFORMATION St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound Marathon is the annual season-ending and marquee event of fundraising for the SWIM’s cancer prevention, education and support programs.

The St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation will be happy to provide some ideas and materials that you may need in order to achieve your goal. Call (203) 382-2302 to obtain some additional marketing materials about SWIM Across the Sound to assist in your fundraising.

Your event participation includes: • Pre-SWIM dinner meeting for each team member • Ferry transportation to Port Jefferson • Escort boat for the Marathon • One commemorative T-shirt and hat for each swimmer plus other race bag goodies • Post-SWIM meal and party

PAYMENT INFORMATION: A non-refundable registration fee payment of $200 is due at the time of online registration. This amount will be included in your fundraising goal.

PLEDGE COMMITMENT

SOLO SWIMMERS: A minimum of $1,500

TWO-PERSON RELAY SWIMMERS: A minimum of $3,500

ALL OTHER TEAM RELAYS: A minimum of $7,500

SWIM participants are encouraged to raise more than the minimum pledge for this great cause.

FUNDRAISING DEADLINES Monday, July 18th, 2016 Fundraising pledges due Friday, September 30th, 2016 2016 Fundraising completed

Pledges by donors can be made online or by check mailed to the address below. Additional instructions are provided on the website. St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound is a qualified charitable organization under Section 501(C)3 of the Internal Revenue Code.

PLEASE MAIL ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION AND CHECKS TO: St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound c/o St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation 2800 Main Street Bridgeport, CT 06606

*In the memo line of the check reference the swimmer’s name.

NOTE: THERE ARE NO ADDITIONAL FEES RELATED TO THE EVENT. THE FUNDRAISING GOAL INCLUDES ALL BOAT FEES, FERRY TICKETS, MANDATORY PRE-SWIM DINNER AND POST-SWIM PARTY FOR THE SWIMMERS AND CREW.

Please contact Patti Fignar at the Foundation Office with questions: [email protected] or 203-382-2303. For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 14 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES FUNDRAISING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is there a commitment requirement for this event? Yes, the event has the following fundraising minimum commitment requirements: Solo Swimmer - $1,500 Two-Person Swim Team - $3,500 Team Relays (4-6 person) - $7,500 Never Alone Relays (4-6 person) - $7,500 Swimmers are encouraged to surpass the minimum goal requirement for their specific category in order to make an even bigger difference in the fight against cancer. This requirement is set to maximize the funds we are able to direct to the 45 prevention, screening, education and support programs funded by this event.

When is the due date for meeting the fundraising commitment requirement? What happens if I don’t meet this date? In order to guarantee your participation into the SWIM Marathon, fundraising commitments must be met by July 14th. If funds are not received by this date, we reserve the right to cancel your participation. Each swimmer/relay will be reviewed on an individual basis. Consideration will be given to matching gifts and other pending transactions. If you have any questions, please contact us.

If you have not met your fundraising commitment and your participation has been canceled, all monies raised up to that point will be considered a donation to the SWIM.

At the discretion of the SWIM Committee, swimmers may be given one full month after the date of the SWIM to submit any additional monies they have raised to reach the fundraising commitment.

Is the $200 Registration Fee counted towards the fundraising commitment? Yes, the $200 registration fee will be counted toward your fundraising commitment. Registration fees are non-refundable.

After registration, you have a 14-day period from the day you registered to withdraw from the SWIM and you will not be held responsible for your fundraising commitment. If within those 14 days you decide that you cannot make this commitment for any reason, immediately notify the Foundation Office.

How can I raise funds? Online fundraising is easy. Once you have registered online you will be able to customize your swimmer fundraising personal page. From there, you can import your contacts and send e-mail messages that link to your page. If you would like additional fundraising ideas, e-mail [email protected] or call the Foundation office at 203-382-2303. Set your goal high!

Do you accept donations by check? Check and/or money orders payable to SWIM Across the Sound are acceptable forms of donation, ensure the swimmer’s name is referenced in the memo line of the check. You should mail these offline donations to the Foundation office in the self-addressed return envelopes provided to you.

If the check is made payable to you or your team, please endorse the back of the check. In addition to your signature, please write, “For deposit only payable to SWIM Across the Sound”.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 15 of 16 SWIM MARATHON RULES FUNDRAISING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can we submit donations in cash? Cash can be brought directly to the Foundation Office. DO NOT MAIL CASH! It is preferred that swimmers who receive donations in cash, write a check or purchase a money order to submit the donation. No tax receipt will be generated.

How long does it take for donations to be posted to my personal page? Credit card donations made via the website are posted immediately. Check, money order and/or credit card donations submitted via mail will be posted within three weeks of their mailing date.

How will I know when I receive offline donations? Offline donations will be posted on your personal webpage, just like online donations. An e-mail will be generated on the 15th of each month with your fundraising status report. All online and offline donations received prior to this date will be reflected in your report.

Can I collect donations in foreign currency? Yes, credit card and check donations received in foreign currency will be converted at the bank rate at the time they are processed. All donation amounts are credited to SWIM Across the Sound in U.S. dollars.

Can my donors get tax receipts? Most donors use either their credit card receipt or canceled check as donation receipts. Online donors will receive an e-mail confirmation and acknowledgment as soon as the transaction is complete. For all offline gifts, a written confirmation will be mailed within three (3) weeks of the date the donation was processed.

As required by the IRS, anyone making a single donation of $250 or more will receive a hard copy receipt directly from St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation.

Do we get credit for matching gifts from our donor’s employers? Yes. Matching gift amounts will count towards your fundraising commitment. Matching gift donations will be credited to your account once the check has been received from the company. Many companies have unique policies on matching gifts and vary in processing time. We cannot guarantee the amount of time it takes for a company to approve the request forms, process the matching gift, and cut checks to the Foundation. Please contact your company for more information.

Where do we send matching gift forms? Please include the swimmer’s name and send the completed matching gift forms to: St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation 2800 Main Street Bridgeport, CT 06606

What is the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation/ SWIM Across the Sound Federal Tax ID number? The St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation/SWIM Across the Sound Federal Tax ID number is 22-2558132.

For more info, please visit our website at www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org/marathon2016 or call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 382-2303 or (203) 382-2304.

SWIM Marathon Info- Page 16 of 16