The Nepean Sailing Club’s (NSC) Bring on the Bay fundraising event is an annual fundraising event, benefiting Easter Seals Ontario and supporting children with physical disabilities in the Ottawa area.
Bring on the Bay is Canada’s second largest open-water swim. It takes place on Lac Deschênes in the Ottawa River, starting at the NSC and ending at Britannia Park. The swim includes 1.5K and 3.0K distance events.
Since its inception in 2007 (when 12 swimmers and one boat started the event), NSC’s Bring on the Bay fundraising event has raised over $860,000 for Easter Seals Ontario. Most recently, the event included over 700 swimmers, 35+ boats, 70+ kayakers, paddle boards and canoes, the Ottawa Fire Services’ Lincoln Fields Water Rescue Unit, generous local sponsors and hundreds of amazing volunteers.
Highlights from the Event
NSC’s Bring on the Bay swim isn’t just an event—it is a celebration of determination, achievement, and community spirit. Swimmers from all walks of life take the plunge into the waters of Lac Deschênes, brought together by a drive to challenge themselves and to contribute to a worthy cause.
For many participants, the day is about more than just reaching a finish line; it’s about challenging their limits and experiencing a profound sense of accomplishment.
“Such a great event! So amazing. It was my first and I was nervous so took advantage of the swim Angel program! I’m so happy with how the day went and will be back again next year!“
A Day of Excitement
The atmosphere buzzes with excitement as swimmers arrive and launch themselves through the course. An enthusiastic crowd cheers from the shore and on the water. Volunteers on boats, in kayaks and on paddle boards rally the swimmers while keeping a watchful eye over their safety.
“LOVED the frequency of the boats & signage along the route. Also, the volunteers in sailboats,
kayaks and paddle boards were all so helpful and encouraging!”
Even those who don’t compete find themselves swept up in the energy of the event. Families and friends gather to support their loved ones, celebrating not just the completion of the swim but the effort and heart that goes into each stroke.
“This is an amazingly well organized event, in fact the best I have ever attended. Well done to all the volunteers and organizers for making the entire occasion one to remember and to look forward to!”
The Spirit of Accomplishment
Each swimmer has their own story of being challenged and the exhilaration of their accomplishment. Events like these bring out our best.
Bring on the Bay is more than a swim—it is a testament to determination and the power of collective action. As participants celebrate their achievements, one sentiment echoes loudly: the pride of having been part of something greater than themselves.
For more information on upcoming or previous events, race results, to register, sponsor or volunteer, please visit the BOTB site or contact bringonthebay@gmail.com
Here’s to making waves together!