On Saturday, Sept. 21, Ryder Griffin, a senior at Carrollton City High School, will join more than 1,000 swimmers at Swim Across America-Atlanta’s 12th annual open water event at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Gainesville, Georgia. This event benefits the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Swim Across America is a national nonprofit organization that funds cancer research and clinical trials by hosting charity swims across the United States. Since its inception in 1992, it has donated nearly $100 million toward grants. Ryder is in his second year participating with SAA-Atlanta to raise awareness of the importance of funding childhood cancer research. He has raised over $1,800 in support of this cause so far this year. Ryder also has the honor of currently serving as a junior advisory board member for SAA-Atlanta.

Carrollton High School swim coach Jason Raburn praised Ryder for his hard work as a swimmer and dedication to a great cause.

“Ryder is a gifted swimmer who is dedicated to his sport,” Raburn said. “He works hard to reach his goals in the pool and in the community. He has been an asset to our school and our state swimming team for the past two seasons. I am excited to see what he accomplishes, not only in the pool but out of it as well.”

As an honor student and swim team member at Carrollton High School, Ryder is committed to representing his school and community to the best of his ability while continuing to make waves in the fight against cancer.

CHS senior Ryder Griffin is pictured left with teammate Emma Staudigl. Both will compete in Swim Across America’s 12th Annual Open Water Event held at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Gainesville, Georgia on Saturday, September 21.