_ The 2nd Annual Jim Whelan Open Water Festival:

The 2nd Annual Jim Whelan Open Water Festival is bringing the 55th Annual Around the Island Marathon (22.75 miles) to Atlantic City, NJ hosted by Green Whales, Inc. In 2019, the inaugural Jim Whelan Open Water Festival successfully resurrected this historic swim for its 54th installment in honor of the late Jim Whelan; a former NJ State Senator, Mayor of Atlantic City, member of the Atlantic City Beach Patrol, Atlantic City teacher, and Atlantic City High School Swim Coach. 

The Around the Island Marathon current record holder, as documented on marathonswimmers.org, remains Stéphane Gomez, from France, set in 2004 with a time of 6:37.09. The winners from 2019 were:

• First male and overall winner: William “Bill” Leonard, from Canada, at 8:23:27
• First relay: Swim RVA Hammerheads, Steven “Craig” Dunbar and Teresa “Tess” Andres from the United States, at 9:29:56
• First female: Charlotte Brynn, from the United States, finishing at 9:31:28

The 55th Around the Island Marathon will bring a $10,500 purse to its participants with additional prizes based on mileage and egress points.

• 1st Male Finisher: $2000
• 1st Female Finisher: $2000
• 1st Relay Team Finisher: $3000
• 2nd Male Finisher: $1000
• 2nd Female Finisher: $1000
• 2nd Relay Team Finisher: $1500

We are so blessed to be working with the cities of Atlantic City, Ventnor, Margate, and Longport, along with the U.S. Coast Guard, Marine Police and countless NJ Beach Patrols. Through our efforts, those of our partners, and the support of our sponsors we opened the community’s eyes to two important aspects of this race:

• The Whelan Whales program; free swimming lessons and water safety to the children of Atlantic City. 
• The historical significance of this race to the community and generations of lifeguard families.

This festival is a great time to get the whole family involved, introduce the love of open water racing to youngsters and see some great swimmers compete in this legendary event.

All proceeds and fundraising from the festival will help support Green Whales, Inc. and the Atlantic County youth in their swimming and water safety success!