2 mile swim across Lake Superior in Bayfield, WI

Former Member
Former Member
Point to LaPointe Swim to Madeline Island Is August 11 The 2nd annual Point to LaPointe, a 2 mile swim from Bayfield, WI to Madeline Island, will take place on Saturday, August 11, 2007. This year’s event will feature both a competitive race for experienced swimmers and a community swim for more casual swimmers who just want to make it across Lake Superior. Experienced swimmers will race for age group prizes and shoot to beat the fastest known crossing time of 47:20. Community swimmers will have 2 ½ hours to complete the 2 miles, which follows the path of the winter ice road from Bayfield to Madeline Island, WI. Relay teams are also welcome, where 2-4 swimmers switch in and out of the water from an escort boat. Racing starts at 7:45 am. Spectators can get an excellent view of the race by taking the Madeline Island Ferry. The event will finish with an 11:00 am pasta lunch at the Bell St. Tavern for all swimmers, volunteers and spectators. Point to LaPointe is a fundraiser for the Bayfield Area Recreation Center and indoor swimming pool. Swimmers are encouraged to get pledges for their swim; $100 in pledges will waive the $50 entry fee. Top pledge collectors will receive valuable prizes, including a Wolfsong Wear jacket for the highest money raised. All entrants will receive a hooded sweatshirt, swim cap, free lunch and a ferry ride back to the mainland. For more information or to register, visit www.bayfieldreccenter.com or call 715-779-5408.
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    Thanks for the information Scott. It looks like a great time. I see that it is a fairly new event - is it held the same time each year? I can't make it this year, but I would love to put it in my schedule for next year.
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    I agree, this sounds fun! I do have a few questions: I can't do it this year either but I would like to try to schedule it next year. I checked the website and I didn't really see any more details. Will they be posted there sometime? Also, what's the average water temperature for the swim? I've always heard that Lake Superior was one of the coldest of the Great Lakes. Thanks for any info! JIM
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    I did the swim this past weekend and enjoyed it greatly. The water was not too hot, not too cold -- probably around 70 -- with no waves. Age group and overall winners receive bowls of tasty blueberries! I highly recommend the swim -- next year it's scheduled for August 9, 2009.