The fundraising from the round-the-island relay swim to benefit the Bermuda Physically Handicapped Association reached its target of $25,000 at the end of last year.

The XL Foundation kindly donated an additional $5,000 to the charity, as agreed upon in a challenge grant, bringing the total funds raised to date to $30,000. Money donated will be used for the transportation needs of the disabled, including ancillary equipment and maintenance.

The swim was organised by Nick Strong of the Bermuda Masters Swimming Association as a fund-raising event to mark the 30th anniversary of Sean O'Connell's solo round-the-island swim in August 1976. The Bermuda Physically Handicapped Association was the same charity Sean O'Connell championed back in 1976.

The swim started and finished at the 9 Beaches resort and was compromised of 20 legs, with a minimum of two swimmers per leg. Sean O'Connell also participated, swimming the final leg of the relay. Total distance swam was 41 miles.