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May 2025, Peterborough, ON – In the Peterborough YMCA pool, the annual tradition of dressing up in costume and gathering your friends for a morning swim relay is still going strong. The 39th Carl Oake Rotary Swim, sponsored by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc., has officially tallied up $57, 748 in support of local and national causes.
This year’s event was the first after the passing of it’s founder Carl Oake. For his daughter, C21 United Realty owner Vanessa Oake Hogan, that meant this year’s event held extra weight. “This year was especially meaningful because it was the first without my dad here to witness it. We honoured him in a special way, reflecting on his impact, and it made the event even more emotional and inspiring.
“The energy, participation, and generosity exceeded expectations, and I know my dad would be so proud.”
More than just a simple swimming relay, the Carl Oake swim has long encouraged teams to get as silly as they’d like, and this year’s batch of participants did not disappoint. Sports jerseys, bee costumes and furry pink cowboy hats could all be seen as contestants tried to conquer the floating catwalk. Organizers noted that the younger generation showed up in big numbers for the cause, proving that this beloved tradition will continue for years to come.
“We’re committed to growing this event and keeping it strong,” Vanessa adds. “That means continuing to engage the community, bringing in new supporters, and ensuring it remains a fun and impactful way to give back – just as my dad envisioned.”
The money raised will go towards helping a number of initiatives, with $13,000 earmarked for Easter Seals Canada, the national charitable partner of CENTURY 21 Canada of which the Swim has long been a supporter.
With this year’s event now wrapped up, Vanessa and her family can now take a rest before turning their attention to next year. “Keeping this tradition alive means everything,” she says. “My dad started this event with a simple goal: to give back. Seeing it continue year after year, touching so many lives, is a testament to this legacy and the generosity of our community.”
