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Annual ‘Swim Across the Sound’ Event Raises $750,000 for Cancer Patients and Their Families

August 04, 2025

The 38th annual Swim Across the Sound Marathon, hosted by St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation, made a splash this year as more than 220 swimmers and 100 boaters came together to raise nearly $750,000 for cancer patients and their families.

The 15.5-mile open-water swim from Port Jefferson, NY to Bridgeport, CT is one of the nation’s top endurance charity events. Monroe’s Joey Nizzardo claimed his third consecutive victory, finishing in 6 hours, 2 minutes, and 42 seconds, followed by Nikko Price of Branford at 6 hours, 21 minutes, and 7 seconds.

Proceeds fund vital programs—helping families with transportation, medication, and living expenses not covered by insurance. Spectators gathered at Captain’s Cove Seaport to cheer on swimmers and enjoy live music, children’s activities, and the awards celebration.

Now in its 38th year, the Swim’s humble beginnings—a 1987 relay by three Boston College graduates raising $5,000—have evolved into a statewide movement raising more than $1 million annually. Participants from across the U.S. travel to Connecticut to take part, united by one mission: to bring hope and relief to those battling cancer.