What a way to beat the heat!
A group of southern Brooklyn swimmers escaped the summer sweat during the annual 10-mile “Key Lime Pie” swim from Coney Island to Red Hook on Sunday, July 7.
The group, known as the Coney Island Brighton Beach Open Water Swimmers, often take to the water for laid back swims named after what they plan on eating at the finish line. Sunday’s swim was no different, ending at Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie on Van Dyke Street.
“It’s just a lighthearted and fun way to swim,” group co-founder Capri Djatiasmoro told Brooklyn Paper.
Djatiasmoro, a self-proclaimed “nut-job” when it comes to swimming, has been leading the Coney Island Brighton Beach Open Water Swimmers since 2005. Alongside her two co-founders, she organizes open water clinics and helps pool dippers transition to the ocean.
“We love swimming,” she said. “And we love sharing that love with other swimmers.”
Djatiasmoro’s passion is matched by her expertise in reading tides. She spends hours poring over charts and maps to ensure that each swim is done safely and with optimal current assist. Her priorities for a good day on the water include three simple elements — “You start with love, safety and fun,” she said.
And the group’s collective passion is celebrated at the end of each swim, often with a good bite to eat or a sweet treat like key lime pie.
One of the group’s most popular swims is the “Lobster Roll Swim,” which begins at Brighton Beach and ends near the iconic Coney Island Wonder Wheel, where participants indulge in a lobster roll from Paul’s Daughter.
“We time it with low tide at the pier,” Djatiasmoro said. “We swim with the current, assisted by two safety boats, and then get out and enjoy some delicious lobster rolls at Paul’s Daughter.”
Alongside its routine swims ending in eats at local restaurants, the group hosts swim challenges throughout the year, giving experienced paddlers a chance to build their endurance. The organization plans the route, organizes permits and sets up two safety boats to lead and follow behind the swimmer to ensure their safety.
According to Djatiasmoro, each swim is carefully planned to ensure maximum fun and minimal risk.
“I love the ocean. I love swimming,” she said. “I’m happy to share the ocean with other swimmers.”
