The Elevate Open Water Charity Swim Challenge brought rainbows to grey skies in Sentosa, all in support of raising vital funds for the Children's Aid Society
SINGAPORE, 10 NOVEMBER 2024 — The third annual Elevate Open Water Charity Swim Challenge, hosted by triathlon coaching company Elevate Performance Coaching, concluded successfully today at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. The event brought together over 100 participants from the water sports community to raise essential funds for Children’s Aid Society (CAS).
Despite an early morning of torrential rain, participants were rewarded with multiple rainbows and clear skies to kick off the swim at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. Representatives from CAS were present to help flag off the start, adding a meaningful touch to the event. Among the swimmers were IRONMAN podium winners and IRONMAN World Championship qualifiers, with safety supported by stand-up paddleboarders from SUP Ventures and Singapore Paddle Club, as well as lifesaving volunteers from Singapore Polytechnic Lifesavers.
Participants swam up to 10,000 meters in open water, symbolizing their commitment to creating a brighter future for Singapore’s vulnerable children and youths. Their collective efforts helped the event surpass its fundraising target of $10,000 just before event day, with all proceeds going directly to CAS to support the transformation of their 50-year-old Clementi Road premises into the new Melrose Village.
A New Vision for CAS: Melrose Village
Funds raised will go toward building Melrose Village, a 21st-century facility designed to replace CAS’s 50-year-old Clementi Road premises, which can no longer support the needs of its residents. Melrose Village will offer an innovative, therapeutic environment that brings integrated care and support services under one roof. Facilities will include smaller group-home settings that promote close-knit relationships, music and recreational spaces, as well as family-friendly areas to facilitate family visitation, counselling, and therapy.
In line with CAS’s mission to offer tailored, holistic support, Melrose Village will incorporate transitional housing for graduating youths, helping them move toward independent living while maintaining a supportive network. The design and services at Melrose Village will empower vulnerable children and youths, encouraging their mental, social, and educational development in an environment optimized for growth and healing.
“We are deeply grateful to Elevate Performance Coaching and everyone who took part in this year’s Open Water Charity Swim Challenge,” said Alvin Goh, executive director of CAS. “Melrose Village is more than just a building project — it embodies our commitment to creating an inclusive, nurturing a community where children and youths can feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. Thanks to their incredible efforts, we’re one step closer to making Melrose Village a reality.”
Growing Community and Dedication
Since its inception, the Elevate Open Water Charity Swim has raised awareness and funds for CAS while inspiring the wider community. In 2022, the event raised $11,547, followed by $10,100 in 2023. The event has continued to grow in participation and impact, with athletes from local swim and ocean paddling communities, and supporters banding together to make a difference.
Arthur Tong, founder of Elevate Performance Coaching, reflected on the dedication it took to bring the event to life: “Organizing a charity event like this isn’t all sunshine and smooth sailing — or clear skies! The commitment shown by our team, swimmers and volunteers today captures the essence of true sportsmanship and community spirit. Just like the endurance races we train for, organizing a charity event is a marathon in itself. But when the day ends and you see the impact becoming real, you’re reminded why you take on this challenge. It’s humbling and incredibly rewarding to know we’re making a tangible difference for children and youths who need it most.”
The fundraiser will run for an additional week till 17 November 2024. Visit the fundraiser page here.