Paddlers assist solo swimmers by staying with them during the swim, handling nutrition, usually in the form of throwing them a bottle tied off on a string every so often. Paddlers keep extra gear, like spare goggles on board with them. The most important task is setting a course for the day and serving as eyes and ears for your swimmer. It is a great way to see Charleston and is not a difficult paddle, in spite of 12.5 miles. Be prepared to sit in the kayak for about 5 hours. SAC always gives its new paddlers additional information so that you feel comfortable out there. We never leave you wondering what to do, either before the swim or during the swim. Padding is not a hard skill but invaluable to your swimmer! We pay every paddler $110 for their time and effort.
Volunteers help out at the start and/or the finish with easy tasks such as marking swimmers, matching swimmers and paddlers and helping ease kayaks into the water before the start. At the finish, volunteers help pull kayaks from the water, check in with tired swimmers to help them gather belongings and enjoy the day.
All volunteers and paddlers get a race t-shirt and boxed lunch at the finish.
Both roles are good ways of gaining volunteer time and hours. We are happy to confirm your participation if needed with your school or organization.
If interested in any role, please contact race director Kathleen Wilson at 843-708-0846 or email aquaharp@bellsouth.net
