Freeman, Reed Log 4,765 Miles Of Swimming Together At Pool

By Naomi Hatch
   AJ Freeman, 81, and Ron Reed, 79, have swum together every morning since 1974, no matter what the weather. They began by swimming a mile a day and logged their miles, and now swim half a mile daily.
   Both are volunteers at the Snowflake Swimming Pool, helping in various situations and capacities over the years. Most recently by participating in a fund-raiser organized by the Pool Committee, whose is to keep the pool open to kids, teens, families and seniors.
   The Pool Committee will sponsor three events throughout the year, including a family fun day, adult swim classes that just started and last week’s Swim-A-Thon. Money raised will go toward the upkeep and repair of the pool.
   Teresa Kelleher, a member of the Pool Committee who has spent many hours working to keep the pool open, greeted members of the Snowflake and Taylor town councils at last week’s event, noting, “To have people here supporting us, it almost brings a tear to my eyes.” She expressed thanks for the support they have given to the pool.
   Freeman and Reed raised $4,700 in the Swim-A-Thon, which happens to be nearly the number of miles they have swum together through the years.
   Snowflake Mayor Kelly Willis was on hand to present awards to the two men and said, “Seventy-nine and 81, that’s an inspiration to everyone. I’m just really quite touched by the accomplishments you have.”
   Reed added that they had swum 4,765 mile as of June 17.
   Willis said to the two, “Thanks for doing so much with the swimming pool,” noting that he is aware it has been a struggle to keep the pool open. The mayor expressed a desire to find a way to keep the pool open.
   “I’d like to say what great champions they are. They have great character and are an example through-out their lives,” said Willis. He presented them with certificates for swimming 4,700 miles, and their wives, Janice Freeman and Viola Reed presented them with medals.

Photo by Naomi Hatch AJ Freeman and Ron Reed have swum together every morning since 1974, no matter what the weather. On June 17 they participated in a Swim-a-Thon and raised $4,700 for the pool, nearly a dollar for each mile they swam together. The two were then honored by their wives, and the Snowflake and Taylor town councils. On hand for the event were (left to right) Snowflake Mayor Kelly Willis, Taylor Vice Mayor Debbie Tuckfield, Snowflake Councilman Jason Whiting, A.J. Freeman, Snowflake Town Manager Paul Watson, Ron Reed, Taylor Councilman Robin Willis, Snowflake Vice Mayor Kerry Ballard and Taylor Councilwoman Jane Lee.