The Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim is an annual event organized by the Navy SEAL Foundation to raise money and honor the victims of 9/11 and all military personnel who have died serving the country. The event brings together Navy SEAL veterans, first responders, and other participants to swim across the Hudson River, completing a rigorous 3-mile swim and various physical challenges along the way.
What are the Objectives and Goals of the Navy Seal Foundation Hudson River Swim?
The Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim has two primary objectives:
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Honoring Victims of 9/11 and Military Personnel: The swim honors the victims of 9/11 and all military personnel who have died serving the country, including those from the Naval Special Warfare community.
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Raising Money for the Navy SEAL Foundation: Participants pledge to raise a minimum of $2,000 for the Navy SEAL Foundation, which supports over 30 programs for active duty, veterans, and families of the Naval Special Warfare community.
What is the Route and Notable Landmarks of the Navy Seal Foundation Hudson River Swim?
The Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim follows a specific route with notable landmarks along the way:
- Starting Point: The swim begins at the Empty Sky Memorial in Liberty State Park, New Jersey.
- Swim Route: Participants swim across the Hudson River to Liberty Island, where they complete 100 push-ups and 22 pull-ups. They then swim to Ellis Island, where they complete another set of push-ups and pull-ups. Finally, they swim to Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, where they pick up American flags and run to the World Trade Center.
- Notable Landmarks: The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the World Trade Center are the key landmarks along the swim route.
What are the Challenges Faced by Participants in the Navy Seal Foundation Hudson River Swim?
Participants in the Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim face several challenges:
- Water Conditions: The Hudson River’s currents and open water conditions present a significant challenge to participants.
- Physical Demands: The swim requires participants to complete 300 push-ups and 66 pull-ups in addition to the 3-mile swim.
- Weather Conditions: Weather conditions such as wind, waves, and temperature can affect the swim.
How does the Navy Seal Foundation Hudson River Swim Support the SEAL Community?
The Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim supports the SEAL community in the following ways:
- Financial Contributions: The event raises money for the Navy SEAL Foundation, which supports various programs for the Naval Special Warfare community.
- Awareness Initiatives: The event raises awareness about the sacrifices made by military personnel and the importance of supporting their families.
- Community Engagement: The event brings together Navy SEAL veterans, first responders, and other participants to honor the victims of 9/11 and support the SEAL community.
What are the Travel Arrangements, Costs, Schedules, Rules, and Timings for the Navy Seal Foundation Hudson River Swim?
The Navy SEAL Foundation Hudson River Swim has the following details:
- Travel Arrangements: Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from the event.
- Costs: Participants must pledge to raise a minimum of $2,000 for the Navy SEAL Foundation.
- Schedules: The event typically takes place in August, with specific dates varying from year to year.
- Rules: Participants must pass a qualifying training swim or show proof of completion of open water swimming 3 miles or greater in the past year. Non-SEAL swimmers must have completed military training and pass a screening swim test.
- Timings: The event starts early in the morning, with participants completing the swim and physical challenges within a few hours.
Reference:
1. https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2024-08-07/veterans,-first-responders-to-cross-hudson-at-nyc-navy-seal-swim-14762878.html
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/first-responders-to-swim-across-hudson-river-with-retired-navy-seals-to-raise-money/
3. https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2023-08-15/navy-seal-veterans-plan-to-cross-hudson-in-iconic-nyc-swim-11046723.html