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Lexington, SC (WACH)--Swimmers from all across the Midlands hit the water Saturday Morning to remember one of their own.

More than 200 participated in the 14th annual Dam Swim for Drew event at Lake Murray. They swam two miles from the Irmo side of the Lake Murray dam to the Lexington side.

The event honors Drew Smith; an 11 year old Lexington resident killed in a boating under the influence accident at Lake Murray back in 1997. The Lexington High School swim team began this tradition in his honor.

Drew's mother Karen said the event has gained  in popularity each year to swimmers of all ages.

"It has grown tremendously from an afternoon event with just Lexington High School swimmers to what you see out her today. It is the one time of the year we have to remind the public about Drew."

That accident along with others paved the way for stricter laws against boaters under the influence; who can now face the same punishment as those who get DUI's.