‘West Landing’: A Short Film About Swims, Friendship and Finding Community | 27Speaks - 27 East
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‘West Landing’: A Short Film About Swims, Friendship and Finding Community | 27Speaks

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A group of swimmers have found strength and fellowship at West Landing in Hampton Bays. Courtesy Honora Campbell

A group of swimmers have found strength and fellowship at West Landing in Hampton Bays. Courtesy Honora Campbell

authorStaff Writer on Oct 9, 2025

Every summer morning, a dedicated group of open-water swimmers — each over the age of 60 — gathers at West Landing in Hampton Bays to swim the calm waters of Peconic Bay. But this ritual is about much more than fitness. Over the years, these daily swims have become a source of deep friendship, connection and joy.

This week on the podcast, the editors are joined by filmmaker Doug Gallo and his mother Chris, one of the swimmers featured in his short documentary “West Landing,” which is screening at this year’s Hamptons International Film Festival. Together, Doug and Chris share how the film came to life — and reflect on the tight-knit community that’s formed in the bay, one swim at a time.

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