Friends Swimming for Breast Cancer Prevention

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) will be holding its annual, statewide Against the Tide athletic fundraising event at Nickerson State Park again in 2018. Proceeds benefit MBCC, which is the state’s leading breast cancer organization that seeks to understand the causes of breast cancer in order to find ways to prevent the disease.

Jean Handren, her husband Greg, and her swim group will be participating for the second year at the Against the Tide event in Brewster on August 18th as part of Team Lucky Greg (named after the only gentleman in the group). This group has been swimming together 3 mornings a week for the last six years – some members longer and a few are newer members. Handren says, “Last year one of the long-time group members suggested that we join together to support MBCC and form a team to swim 1 mile at the Against the Tide in Nickerson State Park. Our decision was based on our love of swimming, the desire to support a wonderful organization that helps so many with its focus on prevention, but also for one of our own team members who is a breast cancer survivor. She is our inspiration!”

Cheryl Osimo, MBCC Executive Director, commends the group of friends for their dedication to MBCC’s goal of preventing cancer before it starts: “Jean, Greg and their fellow teammates are an inspiration to me and to so many others. On behalf of MBCC, I am so grateful for their role in our work toward breast cancer prevention.”

The statewide Cape Cod Against the Tide will be held for the 19th year at DCR's Nickerson State Park (Brewster, MA) on Saturday, August 18, 2018.

This family-friendly and inspirational event brings people from all demographics together with one goal in mind: breast cancer prevention. New for 2018, Against the Tide will offer a half mile paddle board component and chip timing for the swim, run and Aquathon components. In addition to paddle board, the event offers participants of all ages the choice of participating in one or more of the following components: 1-mile competitive swim, either a 1-mile or half mile recreational swim, 2-mile recreational kayak, 3-mile fitness walk, and USA Track & Field certified 5K/10K runs. The event also offers an Aquathon “Splash and Dash” component, where participants “splash” in the competitive 1-mile swim and immediately “dash” in the 5K or 10K run (chosen by the participant).

MBCC is inviting people throughout Massachusetts to register for the event at www.mbcc.org/swim or by calling 1-800-649-MBCC (6222). Those who cannot attend are invited to make a pledge to a registered participant or existing team. Participants may register as an individual or as part of a team. Registration is $40 per adult per event activity ($80 for Aquathon) and $25 per student per event activity ($50 for Aquathon) up to a maximum of 3 events. We encourage all participants to fundraise beyond the registration minimum, as all proceeds support Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition. Prizes will be awarded to the podium finishers and top fundraisers.

DIRECTIONS: DCR's NICKERSON STATE PARK

Park location: 3488 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631

From Boston:

- Take Rte. 3 south to the Sagamore Bridge

- Take Rte. 6 to exit 12 in Orleans

- Turn left off the ramp onto Rte. 6A West towards Brewster.

- Continue for about 2 miles. Park entrance is on left.