The 40th annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim has raised more than $51,000 this year, pushing the event past a major fundraising milestone in Peterborough.
Organizers announced Monday that the 2026 fundraiser brought in $51,286.35, bringing the Carl Oake Rotary Swim’s total to more than $1.5 million raised over four decades.
The fundraising total was revealed during a regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Peterborough at the McDonnell Activity Centre.
Hosted in partnership with Century 21 United Realty, this year’s event took place Feb. 27 at the YMCA of Central East Ontario and featured an 1980s theme, a nod to when Carl Oake first began swimming laps to raise money for Easter Seals Ontario.
With support from Baker Tilly and Holiday Ford Lincoln, organizers presented a $12,000 cheque to Easter Seals Ontario and a $3,000 cheque to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
Officials say the remaining funds will support Rotary initiatives in the local community and abroad.
Awards were also handed out to participating teams.
Team World Barbie was recognized as the top fundraising swim team and received tickets to a Peterborough Lakers game, while The Crocodile Dundees earned best costume honours and received a game-worn Peterborough Petes helmet and Lakers gear.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
