Feb. 11, 2009
DALLAS - On February 14th, SMU and Swim Across America will host a fundraising event to raise money for cancer research. This event is a tribute to the legendary Olympic coach, Richard Quick, who was recently diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Swimmers of all ages and ability will swim in Richard's honor to join him in raising money for cancer research.
Quick has a special relationship with SMU. He grew up in Dallas, received both his Bachelor's and Masters Degree at SMU and began his coaching career on the Hilltop. He also played a huge role in starting the women's program at SMU. Please join SMU and Swim Across America on February 14th for this "Swim Quick," Hub event.
Quick is renowned in the swimming world for his unparalleled coaching achievements. He has coached six U.S. Olympic Swimming Teams, led his collegiate teams to 12 NCAA titles, inspired every swimmer he has coached, and led the swimming community with respect and integrity. His list of NCAA and Olympic champions make a strong argument that he is one of the nation's greatest coaches of all time. He is currently the head coach at Auburn.
Swim Across America asks all swimmers across the world to unite, swim and give on one day in Richard's honor. Swim Across America has created the SAA Richard Quick Endowment to support cancer research initiatives. It is their hope that every participating swimmer will make a donation to the Endowment. There will be four main university "hubs" hosting swimmers - SMU, Texas, Auburn and Stanford. Additionally, swimmers can jump into any pool throughout the world and dedicate their swim to honor Richard.
"God didn't make me a competitor to sit on the sidelines", Richard said with his shining, fighting spirit. "This is an ongoing and worthwhile project, and I am honored that for one day I am contributing to the efforts of many that are fighting cancer. I am blessed that the swimming community has been so supportive with all their unconditional love and prayers. "
To participate and give, please go to www.swimacrossamerica.org and click on "Swim Quick". For questions, please email Janel Jorgensen, Executive Director for Swim Across America, at janel@swimacrossamerica.org or call (888) SWIM-USA.
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Schedule
February 14th, 2009, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Joe Perkins Natatorium
1-2 p.m. - "Swim Quick," for SMU and Texas alumni
Gather along with friends of Richard at 'The Nat' for fellowship and prayer. At this time, attendees can swim, sign a card for Richard or take pictures. There will also be a camera crew streaming live footage of the event on Swimmingworld.tv.
2-5 p.m. - "Swim Quick," for everyone
Swimmers donate a minimum of $5 to swim in the SMU pool in honor of Richard. Sign up on deck during regular Rec swim hours.
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About Swim Across America
Swim Across America (SAA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization making a difference in the fight against cancer. Established over 20 years ago with the mission of raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment, SAA conducts aquatics-based events across the country, including swims in Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and New York. To date, they have raised over $25m for some of the top cancer institutions in the nation, including Memorial Sloan Kettering, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, UCSF Children's Hospital and the Loyola Cancer Center.
