It is hard to believe that the annual one-mile swim across Oyster Bay Harbor will be repeated for the tenth time on Aug. 13, this summer's date for the popular event.

To measure the increase in popularity of this nonCompetitive swim, among Long Island swimmers of all ages, shapes, or degrees of aquatic expertise, one only has to compare some net profit figures. In 1992 the Red Cross profited $4,874 from the Swim-A-Cross, while last summer's figure had climbed to $14,480. This summer's goal is $17,500.

With The increasing number of participants, some tighter regulations had to be established. For safety reasons, no children under age ten can participate, and definitely no pets are allowed to accompany their masters across the harbor. Fortunately there are no age restrictions at the other end; octogenarians in good health are welcome to participate, even if they proceed as slowly as snails on dry land. Surf boards and boats, manned by patient lifeguards, offer temporary rest (or rescue) to those who overestimated their stamina. Spectators and cheerleaders always add a note of excitement, as do television crews and music. Refreshments, donated by local business, will be offered after the swim.

The date is Friday, Aug. 13 at 1 p.m., check-in is 12:30 p.m. at Centre Island Beach in Bayville. Advance registration fee is $25 ($30 on The day of the event), and a minimum of $50 in pledges is expected from each participant. Have your friends, relatives, business colleagues support you with a pledge. It's for a good cause.

Mail checks payable to American Red Cross in Nassau County to the American Red Cross, 195 Willis Avenue, Mineola, NY 11501 or call Devera Lynn at 747-3500 ext. 215.

Start training, and I hope to see you on Aug. 13 at Centre Island Beach for a fun event.