13th Annual Tickle Swim for Mental Health – Seeking Kayakers!

Jul 3, 2025

The Tickle Swim is a 5KM open ocean swim between Portugal Cove–St. Philip’s and Bell Island that aims to raise awareness of mental health and reduce stigma around mental illness by supporting the work of the Canadian Mental Health Association in Newfoundland and Labrador (CMHA-NL), and reminding us all that physical and mental health go hand-in-hand. The Tickle Swim was first conceived and swam in 2013 by community activist Sheilagh O’Leary and in recent years up to 30 swimmers have made the crossing. Now in its 13^th year, we’re excited to welcome participants on Saturday August 16^th for this unique and challenging Newfoundland event for a great cause! We’re currently seeking kayaker volunteers with Paddle Canada Skills Certification to support our swimmers; if interested please visit https://www.tickleswim.ca/register to sign up or learn more.