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ÖTILLÖ Swimrun, an extreme team swimming and running competition, may be coming to Catalina Island in 2020

OTILLO Swimrun
AVALON—Imagine racing with a partner, tethered together, on a 27-mile course that includes running and swimming – that means running in wetsuits and swimming in shoes. It turns out Avalon may be hosting a race of this caliber on an annual basis. One the most challenging endurance competitions, ÖTILLÖ Swimrun, was approved by Avalon’s City Council to come to Catalina Island from Feb.29-March, 1 2020. There was an outpouring of support at the meeting, including from Tony Budrovich, CEO of Catalina Island Conservancy. Budrovich cited ÖTILLÖ events have been largely environmentally conscious, leaving no waste behind. While other athletic events could produce trash, the running/swimming combination does not. One of Catalina’s challenges has been keeping the small island clear of trash, especially during the high tourism seasons. Events creating too much waste are potentially hazardous to the environment, but ÖTILLÖ’s environmental awareness makes it a fit for Catalina Island. Andy Hewitt of Swimrun Americas, Inc. gave a presentation on the event and stated that approximately 1,500 people could be expected to visit Avalon during the game, which could translate into $450,000 or more in revenue. Mayor Ann Marshall stated she felt this is the kind of event city staff would encourage to...
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