paddlers raise their paddles to signify that they have a swimmers who needs a ride in…
and the SFPD or another support craft picks up the swimmer…
Most of the paddlers form a start line and the swimmers go towards it for the start:
and they are off…
lifeguards at the finish line:
also of interest: Escape from Alcatraz ‘Sharkfest’ swim volunteering
Tips for guarding open water swims
Group photos of De Anza volunteers at these races since 2000 are at: Alcatraz group photos