VERO BEACH — The old British steamship Breconshire, a.k.a. the boiler wreck, has been a favorite local dive spot for decades. Resting in roughly 15 feet of water not far from shore, the ship’s remains became home to a wealth of marine life after sinking in 1894 while en route from New York to Tampa.
But the swimmers heading out Sunday morning weren’t there for the view; they were hoping to win the inaugural Race to the Wreck to benefit the Vero Beach Lifeguard Association. Four divisions – men’s and women’s with and without fins – competed in the 750-yard ocean swim from the beach in front of the Driftwood Inn.
The Vero Beach Lifeguard Association was founded in August 2011 by lifeguards and local citizens to promote water safety and offset cuts to the Recreation Department budget. Money raised at its inventive fundraising events has enabled the VBLA to purchase vital lifesaving equipment and rescue supplies.
Later in the evening the party continued with the fourth annual Waldo’s Wildcard Poker Stroll, with entertainment by the band, Old Barber Bridge.