The Summit Area YMCA Seals Lap-a-Thon has been a cherished tradition and a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts year after year. It’s a time when our swimmers go the extra mile—literally—by swimming laps to raise money for the vital equipment, experiences, and opportunities that power our team throughout the season.

This year, we’re thrilled to celebrate 103 years of the SAY Seals by once again combining the Lap-a-Thon with our annual 5K Challenge at Berkeley Heights Community Pool.

Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Rain Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026

Location: Berkeley Heights Community Pool

Arrival: 4:30 PM

Warm Up/Lane Assignments: 4:40-4:50 PM

Lap-A-Thon Start: 5:00 PM

Pizza Arrives: 5:40 PM

End: 6:45 PM

*PIZZA PARTY AFTER YOUR SWIM!!! Spectators are welcome! Swimmers will need a parent timer/counter just like last year.

Swim Goals by Age Group

15 & Over: 5K (5000 Meters or 100 laps)
13-14: 4K (80 laps)
11-12: 2K (40 laps)
10 & Under: 1K (20 laps)

We’re aiming for 100% team participation and a fundraising goal of $25,000. Every dollar raised helps make our swim season exceptional and inclusive.

How Your Donations Help

Funds raised help subsidize:

Team Equipment
Olympian Clinics
Swim Team BBQ & End-of-Season Banquet
Sunkissed Team T-Shirts & Dinners
National Team Meet Entries
Summit Area YMCA Annual Fund (Supports Program Scholarships/Financial Assistance)
Pool/Facility Upgrades

(Recent upgrades include new lane lines, backstroke flags, pace clocks, and resurfaced wedges at Hurst—all thanks to your generosity!)

Fund Allocation

15% — General Team Fundraising
20% — BBQ & End-of-Season Banquet
20% — Sunkissed Team
20% — National Team
25% — Summit Area YMCA Annual Campaign

Spread the Word

Swimmers will be asking friends, family, neighbors, teachers, and local businesses for support—either by pledging per lap or giving a flat donation. Every contribution—large or small—makes a difference.

Why Your Support Matters

Your gift strengthens our team and uplifts the broader Y community.

Thank you for being part of our journey and for helping us continue a legacy over a century strong.

With gratitude,

Coach Pat

P.S. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Summit Area YMCA has remained committed since 1886 to ensuring programs are accessible to all. With your help, we can continue nurturing young athletes, building healthy habits, and fostering a sense of belonging for every swimmer.

SAY Lap-a-Thon 2026

Team Leaderboard

Team Members