Dublin Swimmers Aim To Set World Record, Spread Safety Message

DUBLIN (CBS SF) –Swimmers in Dublin joined thousands around the country and around the globe Tuesday to try and break the record for the world's largest swimming lesson, with the real message being about pool safety.

The American Swim Academy in Dublin participated in the Guinness World Record event for the second year. The academy participated in last year's inaugural event, which set the record with almost 4,000 swimmers worldwide.

KCBS' Dave Padilla Reports:

Olympic gold-medal winners Rowdy Gaines and Janet Evans were the spokespeople for the event, which organizers hope called attention to the importance of teaching children how to swim.

Drowning is the second leading cause of unintended, injury-related death for children ages one through 14.

"It's so important to draw attention to this issue, particularly at the beginning of the summer season," said Matt Alberti, CEO of American Swim Academy. "The World's Largest Swimming Lesson is a perfect way to bring the message to life for kids and parents."

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