The spirit of community, conservation, and fun was on full display this past weekend as swimmers, volunteers, and supporters gathered for the 5th Annual Clambassador’s Cedar Key Shark Swim on August 15th. What began as a local tradition has officially solidified its place as one of Cedar Key's most anticipated late-summer events—and this year’s impact will be felt directly in our local classrooms.
Swimming for a Purpose: Supporting Aquaculture Education
After all expenses were tallied, this year’s swim generated an impressive $5,030.84 in net proceeds, 100% of which goes directly to the Cedar Key School. The event organizer, Cedar Key’s “Clambassador,” Michael Presley Bobbitt, officially presented the donation check to Principal Cheryl Allen in front of the iconic Cedar Key Shark statue.
This year’s funds are earmarked for a cause deeply tied to the heart of our coastal community: the school’s Aquaculture program. By providing hands-on learning experiences, the program introduces the next generation of clam and oyster farmers to Cedar Key's most vital industry, preserving both the economic engine and cultural heritage of our island home.
Cedar Key School Principal, Cheryl Allen, is presented with a check from Michael Presley Bobbitt.
Financial Breakdown
Thanks to strong community turnouts, shirt sales, and generous online and in-person gifts, total revenues reached $7,680.00. After overhead costs—including custom t-shirt production, website hosting, ticketing app integration, and processing fees totaling $2,649.16—every remaining dollar was directed straight to Cedar Key School.
Highlights From the Water
The event kicked off at 11:00 AM as a fleet of volunteer boats ferried participants across the channel to Atsena Otie. At noon sharp, swimmers jumped into the water to tackle the 0.42-mile course back to the main island.
Swimmers of all ages and skill wait for the call to start.
Local clam, fishing, and pontoon boats lined the route to offer rest stops and moral support. Swimmers crossed the finish line to the roar of an enthusiastic block party complete with live music and crowds cheering along the shore.
Beyond raising funds for local students, the Shark Swim continues to focus on its broader goals:
Promoting Shark Conservation: Raising awareness about the essential role sharks play in maintaining a healthy Gulf Coast ecosystem.
Building a Lasting Community Legacy: Continuing to expand the swim into an annual celebration filled with community fellowship.
Sharks 4 Kids educational table.
Registration table at the Shark Swim.
Looking Ahead: Growing Next Year's Impact
A massive thank-you goes out to every swimmer, volunteer, boat captain, and donor who gave their time and resources to make the 5th annual swim such a resounding success.
The goal for the 6th Annual Cedar Key Shark Swim is even bigger: doubling the donation to Cedar Key School next year. To help reach that milestone, organizers will soon be reaching out to community members to form a dedicated planning committee to help scale up the event. Are you interested in being on the committee? Sign up for their mailing list here.
Stay tuned for future updates, and start practicing your stroke for next year!
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