The first annual Sophie Swim was held on Aug. 28 in Kaanapali. Kevin Drake won the event with a time of 25:26.

What a fun event the first annual Sophie Swim was on Aug. 28. We would like to thank all the volunteers, starting at the top with Chief Operations Manager Sheila Murphy (we couldn’t have done it without you); all of our safety crew, Geoff Bogar, Steve O’Donnell, JP Mihilbauer, Mark Shimer, Freddie Gaastra, Frank on the jet ski and Andy on the Zodiac; Lashawana Garnier for setting the buoys; and all of our safety spotters on the beach.

Thanks also to Ericka Gaastra, Teresa, Anita, the Vera Girls, Tara-Lynn and Arissa, and Brendan Arnds from Tropic Water. Mahalo to Manu at Finish Line Productions for the excellent timing, and the lovely Eileen and Paula.

Christopher Cole has done a fantastic video of the event, and pictures by Adventure Shotz, Kylee Kay Johnson and Wendy Laurel Photography can be viewed on the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theSophieSwim/.

Congratulations to all the winners and runners-up; the time to beat next year is an incredible 25:26 by Kevin Drake (in the 56-60 age group); second overall was Lena Opatril at 27:01 (15-17 age group), and third overall was Kysha Altura (also in the 15-17 group). And I have to say a special congratulations to Greg Gifford, who through sheer determination and a variety of swimming strokes, finished!

Many thanks to all the local businesses who donated so generously, so we were able to give prizes to each winner and runner-up in each division. Mahalo to (in no particular order): Honu & Mala, Hula Grill, Leilani’s, Mahina Boutique, Merriman’s, Roy’s, Sangrita, The Snorkel Store, Trilogy Excursions, UFO Parasail, Gazebo, Warren and Annabelle’s, Kimo’s, Spa Helani, Hina Mana Salon, Koa’s, Prison Street Pizza, Queen’s Treasure, Maui Adventure Cruises, Captain Jack’s and Cool Cat Caf, Paradise Grill, Kaanapali Golf Courses, 10Ya Yoga, Teralani, “Burn’n Love,” Honolua Surf Co., Lahaina Grill, Plantation House, Duke’s and Lahaina Pizza Co.

We hope to see you all again next year for the second annual Sophie Swim.