On November 12, 2024, Woodward Academy’s Middle School and Varsity swim teams joined forces in a one hour international swim event called, “The Hour of Power.” The event was launched at Carleton College in 2006 after one of their beloved swimmers, Ted Mullin, died of a soft tissue cancer called Sarcoma.

The continuous relay swim took place at Woodward's Kennedy Natatorium with 65 Varsity and Middle School swimmers. Their goal was to complete as many laps as possible, of any stroke, in any order, without stopping for an hour. Spontaneous segments were announced including silliest swim style, dog-paddling, and underwater swimming for extra lap points. In total, the group swam more than 39,000 yards—more than 22 miles—during their Hour of Power. In recognition of Woodward’s 125th year, the team's goal was to raise $1,250. The War Eagles handily lapped that goal by more than 152%, raising more than $3,150 to benefit the new Arthur Blank Children’s Hospital of Atlanta. 

An estimated 5,700 athletes from 135 colleges, high schools, and club teams across the U.S. and beyond participated in the 19th annual event. 

Learn more about Woodward's swim program.