Bell Hospital and the Teal Lake Swim, A Brief History:

In 2004, Dr. Michael Grossman enlisted the help of Bell Memorial Hospital and the Upper Peninsula Diabetes Outreach Network (UPDON) in planning a 2.25 mile swim across Teal Lake in Negaunee. The purpose of the swim was threefold: to raise money for a local diabetes family camp which was being held at Northern Michigan University for 2 1/2days each summer, to raise awareness of the health benefits of exercise and physical activity in the treatment of diabetes, and to raise appreciation for the beautiful clear waters of this local lake.

The first four annual events have been a great success and have raised a total of more than $40,000 for children with diabetes in the UP. The generous support of the Marquette County community is appreciated and it is hoped that this tradition continues for many years to come. Over two hundred swimmers have ventured across the lake in this challenge, assisted by 300 volunteer kayakers who have helped to guide them. Olympic gold medal winner, Peter Vanderkaay even made a guest appearance at the 2005 event..

If you enjoy swimming, the time is ripe to begin your training for the sixth annual Swim Teal Lake for Diabetes on July 25, 2009. Hope to see you there!

This years race will start at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25th. The start will take place on Negaunee's Teal Lake Beach and end at Ishpeming's beach at Al Quaal

The entry fee is $75 including pledges. You may pre-register by July 24th or the day of the race. If you plan on registering the day of the race, please be at the Lake by 8 a.m. on race day

This Year: Mark Spitz!

This year we will have a special appearance by Mark Spitz. Click here to view the Mining Journal article.

Results are up!

The results for the 2009 swim are up. Click here to view them. Congratulations to all of the swimmers! We hope to see you in the water again next year. A special thank you goes out to Mark Spitz for making the trip to help promote the swim this year.

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