Walton County resident Matthew Moseley demonstrated his long‑distance swimming passion on Saturday by completing an 11‑mile open‑water swim from Inlet to Grayton Beach in less than seven hours. The effort was not just a personal challenge; it was a fundraiser for the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, an organization dedicated to enhancing marine habitats along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Why the swim matters
Moseley, who says his love for open‑water swimming began 25 years ago, explained that he uses his endurance feats to draw attention to environmental concerns. “Whether it’s plastics in the Caribbean, drought in the West or water quality in Pontchartrain, New Orleans, you know. How can I swim for a better, bigger cause?” he told NewsChannel7.
The artificial reef initiative has a track record of success. Walt Hartley, board president for the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, noted that the first reef, the Grayton Turtle Reef, was deployed in 2015. “Over the last 10‑11 years it’s really just blown up, so much biodiversity,” Hartley said, emphasizing the positive impact on local fish populations and marine ecosystems.
Support on the water
During the swim, Moseley was accompanied by a support boat and his son, Charley, who kayaked alongside him for the entire distance. When Moseley reached the shore at Grayton Beach, friends and volunteers gathered to celebrate his achievement, with drums echoing as he approached the finish line.
“At about a half a mile… you can hear the drums circle, and so that was, like, okay we’re getting to the finish,” Moseley recalled, describing the festive atmosphere that greeted him.
Future swims planned
Looking ahead, Moseley announced that this swim is the first of three major events he intends to undertake in 2027, with additional swims slated for Brazil and Utah’s Green River. Each swim will aim to raise further support for marine conservation projects and increase public awareness of the importance of artificial reefs.
The South Walton Artificial Reef Association relies on community donations and volunteer involvement to fund reef construction, monitoring, and educational outreach. By linking a high‑profile athletic challenge with a clear environmental mission, Moseley’s effort exemplifies how local citizens can mobilize resources for the stewardship of Florida’s coastal waters.
How to help
Residents who wish to contribute to the reef program can visit the South Walton Artificial Reef Association’s website or follow their social‑media channels for updates on upcoming events and donation opportunities. The organization encourages ongoing community participation, from volunteering on reef‑building days to supporting future fundraising swims.
For more information about the artificial reef project or to learn how you can get involved, contact the South Walton Artificial Reef Association directly.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
