On a sunny Sunday morning, September 17th, the Bold & Beautiful Swim Squad Manly, came together for their biannual badge draw and BBQ brekkie. The ceremony celebrates “doing the hard yards!” of the Winter Badge challenge and is the Bold & Beautiful’s unique way of bringing a bit of pomp and ceremony to celebrate their personal achievements and raise a bit of money for one of their favourite local charities – Royal Far West – hurrah!
Beyond the Surf
Held straight after their morning swim, over a 100 squad members, family, friends and swimmers alike, some still sporting their distinctive pink swim caps came together in the Royal Far West’s Centre for Country Kids in Wentworth Street.
Badges, BBQs, and Beautiful Moments
RFW cooked up a fantastic Sausage Sizzle and other breakfast treats, but without doubt the highlight of the morning had to be the badge draw. These badges are symbols of dedication and milestones in their open-water swimming journey. The winter badge challenge starts from 1st June and swimmers must compete over 20 swims over the winter months!
Celebrating Dedication and Success
Receiving a badge is no small feat – it is recognition of personal accomplishments and the swim squad as a whole. Every day this group, wearing hot pink ‘Bold & Beautiful’ swim caps, meet at the front of Manly Life Saving Club and swim at 7am, 7 days a week from Manly to Shelly Beach and back, 750m each way.
Making Waves for a Cause
Our local champions also generously support RFW. A raffle was organised, made possible by the support of local businesses who donated prizes. Manly Lashes & Beauty, The Fairlight Butcher, Anita’s Gelato, Manly Health Foods, Budgy Smuggler, and Aqua Vitae Day Spa all contributing.
The teamwork the Bold & Beautiful Swim Squad, their sponsors, and the local businesses were nothing short of remarkable. They raised an impressive total of $2,253 – a ripple of generosity that will positively impact the lives of country kids.
A Heartfelt Thank You to all the Bold & Beautiful swimmers of Manly!
If you are interested in organising a local fundraising event for Royal Far West we would love to hear from you – please visit here to find out more.
