​YORK, Maine — The Nubble Lighthouse Swim will return this summer, with 125 athletes set to take on the 2.5‑mile open‑ocean course on Saturday, Aug. 8.The annual event, organized by the Gulf of Maine Open Water Swimming Association (GoMOWSA), begins at 8:30 a.m. and will once again raise money for the Michael Phelps Foundation.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementSwimmers will start at Long Sands Beach near the bathhouse before heading into the narrow “gut,” the channel that separates Cape Neddick from the island. The race finishes at Short Sands Beach, offering participants and spectators close‑up views of the iconic Nubble Lighthouse. Because of the cold water and unpredictable ocean conditions, all swimmers must be highly experienced and are required to use personal swim buoys.The Nubble Lighthouse Swim will return this summer, with 125 athletes set to take on the 2.5‑mile open‑ocean course on Saturday, Aug. 8.Over the years, the Nubble Lighthouse Swim has raised more than $300,000 for community nonprofits, including NAMI Maine and the Michael Phelps Foundation. Net proceeds from this year’s event will support the foundation’s IM Program, which provides swim instruction, water‑safety training, and health and goal‑setting education through organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs and Special Olympics teams.For many athletes, the course offers a rare look at the marine life beneath the surface.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“I was amazed at the view of the sea floor. There were thousands of sea stars and urchins plus red, green, and brown seaweeds,” one returning swimmer said. “I got so caught up in sightseeing that I started to veer off course until my husband refocused me on the event.”Others say the highlight is the energy of the crowd and the unique vantage point. “Definitely swimming through the gut,” the swimmer added. “Such a cool perspective of the lighthouse, and hearing the cheers of the spectators is a nice boost.”Bob Fernald, one of GoMOWSA’s event coordinators, said the swim continues to be a meaningful tradition for both athletes and the community.“We are proud to bring swimmers together for such an iconic New England tradition,” Fernald said. “By conquering this beautiful course, our participants and amazing local business partners are directly helping children and Special Olympics athletes learn how to be safe, active, and healthy in the water.”This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Nubble Lighthouse Swim returns with 125 athletes and a mission to give back