Hi, I’m Ani Smith, an open water marathon swimmer based in Florida. This summer, I’m taking on two incredible offshore swims in the Florida Keys — American Shoal Lighthouse and Sombrero Key Lighthouse.
These swims aren’t just about distance. They’re about preserving history and protecting the waters around these iconic lighthouses. Each lighthouse tells the story of Florida’s maritime past, its coastal communities, and the ecosystems that surround them. By swimming out to these structures and back, I hope to raise awareness and support for their preservation.
The swims:
- June 22 – American Shoal Lighthouse (~12.5 miles round-trip, 5.5–6.5 hours)
- July 8 – Sombrero Key Lighthouse (~9 miles round-trip, 4–5 hours)
All funds raised will go directly to the Florida Lighthouse Association, supporting their work to protect and maintain these historic landmarks for future generations.
I’m asking for your support — whether it’s a small donation, a share of this campaign, or simply spreading the word. Every contribution helps preserve a piece of Florida’s maritime history and the waters these lighthouses have guided for generations.
One mile at a time, we can make a difference.
#SwimForTheLight #FloridaLighthouses #OpenWaterSwimming #PreserveHistory #MaritimeHeritage
