Ray Licata Memorial Swim Rescheduled

Last Sunday's weather brought rain and flooding conditions to Long Branch, canceling plans many had for one of the last weekends of the summer.

One event that suffered the consequences was the annual Ray Licata Memorial Swim, which was scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 14.

Fortunately, the swim was rescheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20, where race organizers are hoping for clearer skies and better water conditions.

Race participants will meet on the boardwalk in at 8 a.m. and the starting location will be determined depending on ocean conditions.

Participants can choose from the 1-mile swim or the 100-yard fun swim on race day.

Here are the directions provided on the Ray Licata Memorial Swim web site:

The Start: Make your way to the start area at 7:45 a.m. There is a bullhorn; please listen to any instructions given by organizers.

The Swim: The swim is along the coastline in Long Branch. Participants will be directed to stay within race boundries. Lifeguards will be present both in and out of the water.

The Finish: Once you exit the water you will receive a number and be directed to a results station. Please hand your number to a volunteer, who will record your place and time.

After the main race, at approximately 8:45 a.m., a 100-Yard Fun Swim will take place to allow others to participate in this event.

The Start: Listen for instructions from organizers on the bullhorn.

The Swim: The swim is at the Pier Village in Long Branch. Participants will swim directly out and back around a buoy 50 yards offshore. Lifeguards will be present both in and out of the water. No groins (aka, jetties) will need to be negotiated.

The Finish: No official results are kept, this is a Fun Swim!

Licata, a community activist and avid swimmer along the West End beachfront, died in 2004, during a late afternoon swim. According to the swim web site, the cause of death is believed to be arrhythmia, meaning his heart was either beating too fast or slow or was beating irregularly, causing cardiac arrest.

Race organizers say a portable defibrillator may have been able to save his life, so now proceeds from the swim are used to purchase life-saving equipment for lifeguards and beach staff.

Over the last six years, the swim has raised $43,000, and funds have been used by the city to purchase two certified lifeboats, a portable defibrillator, a Jet Ski and an ATV.

For more information or to learn how to register for the swim, visit the Ray Licata Memorial Swim web site here.