Lap the Lake + WACF:

Swimming With Purpose

Some moments everything just comes together and you have to take it all in. Yesterday was one of those moments for me. I got the opportunity to sit down with the team at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation (WACF). It was amazing to see and hear the work that they are doing to continue protecting our beautiful lakes. We walked the property and I am excited to announce that we have landed on an official start/finish location for the swim.

Not only is WACF officially supporting the Lap the Lake project, but they’ve also given me the honor of starting and finishing my 14-mile swim from their dock at the HINRICHS Waterfront Park off of State Road 13.

Why This Swim Matters

Lap the Lake isn’t just about miles in the water. It’s about going back to the place where I grew up, where I first learned to swim, and where I fell in love with the water in the first place. When I dive into Wawasee, I’m not just testing my body. I’m honoring my roots and chasing a version of myself that only shows up when I’m out past the buoys, lungs burning, arms heavy, mind screaming at me to quit.

And now, with WACF's support along side me, this swim has a bigger purpose. They’re on the frontlines fighting for this watershed — restoring wetlands, protecting land from over-development, fighting off invasive species, and working with farmers to keep the water clean. This lake shaped me, and WACF is making sure it stays alive and thriving for future generations like myself and my daughter.

When I swim that shoreline, every stroke will mean more because it’s not just about me. It’s about protecting the place that gave me my start.

The Sendoff

Here’s the part I can’t wait for — on the morning of the swim, we’ll be gathering at the WACF property on State Road 13. 11586 IN 13 Syracuse, IN 46567 If you want to stop by, say hello, and see me off before I jump into the water, you’re invited.

And when I crawl back out of the lake after 14 miles — tired, broken, and hopefully a little changed — I’ll be right back at that same dock to share the finish with anyone who will come join me. If you’ve been following this journey, if you’ve ever cheered me on from a dock, a kayak, or even a message online, come celebrate with us.

A Shared Mission

This partnership is personal. For me, this swim is about pushing my limits, but it’s also about shining a spotlight on conservation efforts and protecting the waters for the future. Clean water doesn’t just happen. It takes relentless effort, science, and a community that cares.

Lap the Lake is my way of saying: these waters matter. This community matters. And I want to give back to the lake that gave so much to me. I may not have all the solutions, but I believe that shining a light on these issues and supporting the organizations that are making a real impact on our lakes is a step in the right direction.

Join the Movement

So here’s my ask: come be a part of it. Come to the dock. Cheer at the finish. Visit WACF and see the incredible projects they’re working on.

This isn’t just a swim. It’s a chance to make history on Wawasee — every stroke, one lap, one mission to keep these waters alive.

👉 Learn more about the amazing work the WACF is doing here: WACF Website