They Took The Plunge!

Together, they took the plunge!  On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Jack Ringwood (Moorestown NJ) checked off, as completed, a bucket list aspiration.   He achieved a personal goal to swim, not across, but along the shore of Skaneateles Lake from 5 Mile Point to the Village.  By his side was cousin and kayaker, Sarah Checco Goode.  This goal turned plan was hatched at the Crawford Reunion celebrated at the Goode’s house in September when an October lake-date was set.

Skaneateles Lake is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Finger Lakes.”  It has the highest elevation of all the 11 Finger Lakes. Only Cayuga and Seneca can boast of being deeper; Skaneateles has a maximum depth of 315 feet.  Most locals would describe this treasure as stunning and COLD, even on a summer day!  A Central New York October day is not a typical swim day. The 60 degree lake temperature and high winds did not deter this lake duo. 

They entered the water at 8:30am at 5 Mile Point (just down the road from Tom Ringwood’s house) and without a single stop emerged from the water 2.5 hours later.  As Jack plowed through the choppy waters, Sarah had to negotiate the wind, that often required her to paddle backward to stay with the swimmer.  An atypical day for kayaking; her efforts were equally impressive.

Both Jack and Sarah love water.  Jack was member of the Auburn High School swim team from 1971-1975 and during this time employed as a summer lifeguard at the Skaneateles Country Club.  Sarah grew up in Skaneateles and as “a pool gal” participated in synchronized swimming in both high school and college.  Upon retirement, Sarah returned home to Skaneateles.  While involved in many village activities, one can regularly see her on a sunny calm day, paddling along the Skaneateles Lake shoreline.  Sarah and Jack have enjoyed a lifelong pull towards water, especially lakes. 

The big event was celebrated with cheers and hugs and even a “Gold Medal” awarded by Tom Ringwood. “Not too shabby for a couple of 65+ year old cousins.” I wonder what’s next for these cousin pals!