Inclement Weather Delays RI Olympian's Block Island Swim

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Rhode Island Olympian Elizabeth Beisel delayed her scheduled swim to Block Island this week, due to inclement weather conditions. Initially scheduled for Wednesday, the swim is now set for Saturday.

If she completes the swim, Beisel will be the first woman to finish the nearly 10-and-a-half mile route.

Beisel will swim in honor of her father, who died from stage 4 pancreatic cancer in July. One of Ted Beisel's last wishes was that his daughter complete the Block Cancer charity swim, according to charity organization Swim Across America. The proceeds from the swim will benefit the organization, where she has been a volunteer for more than a decade. To date, the Block Cancer swim has raised more than its $100,000 goal, though donations are still accepted.

Beisel's support team will include two support boats, EMTs, shark experts, a navigator, her coach, family and Elaine Howley of the Marathon Swimmers Federation. She will be flanked by two kayakers, who will assist with feeding during the swim, which is expected to last about five hours.

Beisel is a three-time Olympian, silver medal winner and the captain of Team USA during the 2016 summer games.