Vorgee & JMC Distribution: Advancing Open Water Swimming in Canada
Vorgee, a leading swim gear brand, proudly supports the Across the Lake Swim in Kelowna, Canada’s largest open water swim. Known for performance-driven goggles and accessories, Vorgee enhances swimmer safety and comfort. Their products are distributed nationally by JMC Distribution Ltd., based in Richmond, BC. Together, they champion water safety and youth swimming through the Okanagan Swim Program, aligning with national efforts to improve swim skills and reduce drowning risks across communities.
One of the most impactful offshoots of the Across the Lake Swim is the Okanagan Swim Program, which delivers free swimming lessons to local elementary school children. This initiative was created to combat a growing concern in Canada: youth water safety and the increasing number of preventable drownings.
Why It Matters:
According to the Lifesaving Society of Canada, drowning is the second leading cause of preventable death for children under 10. With lakes, rivers, and swimming pools accessible year-round in BC, basic water safety is not a luxury—it’s essential.
Program Highlights:
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Free swim lessons for all grade 3 students in the Central Okanagan School District
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Delivered in partnership with local pools and certified instructors
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Funded in part by proceeds from the Across the Lake Swim and community donations
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Over 20,000 children have received life-saving swim instruction since the program’s inception
This program directly aligns with Ocean Junction’s values: promoting water safety, physical activity, and community well-being.
Community Engagement & Long-Term Impact
The Across the Lake Swim and the Okanagan Swim Program are not just events or initiatives—they are transformative experiences that build confidence, health, and community spirit.
For Youth:
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Learning to swim at a young age reduces fear and builds lifelong skills
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Promotes physical literacy and outdoor fitness
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Teaches respect for water environments, reducing risky behavior
For the Community:
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Encourages volunteerism and local sponsorship
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Fosters inclusivity by offering barrier-free access to sports
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Strengthens awareness of environmental stewardship around Okanagan Lake
Training & Participation
Preparing for the Across the Lake Swim is part of the journey. Local swim coaches, triathlon clubs, and fitness centers in the Okanagan area offer training programs and workshops geared toward open water readiness.
Tips for First-Time Swimmers:
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Practice in open water to get used to conditions
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Use gear like buoyancy shorts, swim goggles, and safety buoys
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Hydrate well and rest adequately before race day
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Respect the water: know your limits and swim with others
Whether you're swimming for time, charity, or personal growth, the event offers categories for every level—making it one of Canada’s most inclusive endurance events.
How You Can Support
Want to support the Okanagan Swim Program or participate in the Across the Lake Swim?
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Register for the event at acrossthelakeswim.com
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Donate to the Okanagan swims program to sponsor lessons for kids
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Volunteer to help with race logistics or safety teams
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Share the mission of water safety and active lifestyles with your community
Your participation helps fund swim education, reduce drowning rates, and inspire young swimmers to build confidence in and around water.
Final Thoughts: A Swim That Makes Waves
The Across the Lake Swim and the Okanagan Swim Program represent the very best of sport—health, community, purpose, and legacy. By combining athletic challenge with a clear social mission, these initiatives have created a blueprint for how endurance events can drive real change.
At Ocean Junction, we’re proud to support events and programs that align with our vision: promoting active lifestyles in harmony with the environment. We believe every child should learn to swim, and every adult should have the chance to reconnect with water through safe, empowering experiences like the Across the Lake Swim.
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